PMR & Statins

Recently, I’ve been trying to research out the possible connection of PMR and the use of statin drugs. Does anyone have any information they would like to share regarding this subject matter. Apparently there is now some concern that statins “might” cause PMR however, it is hard to sort out what is PMR pain and what is the muscular weakness/pain caused by the statins. I have been on statins, most recently Crestor, for a total of 20 years. I decided to take a statin “vacation”10 days ago. I recently had my cholesterol checked…. my results were all within range.

In November 2023 I was diagnosed with giant cell arteritis (GCA) & polymyalgia. I am told that both of these often go hand-in-hand. I was put on 60 mg of prednisone to control the inflammation in my head. (42 days of headaches). Once the GCA was under control and polymyalgia pain was diminished. I was able to start a prednisone taper per my rheumatologist. April of 2024 I was down to 3 mg. The month of May I dropped down to 2 mg when I hit the wall and the polymyalgia returned. In June. I upped my prednisone to 3 mg. With “minimal” pain relief. I have experienced many side effects while on the prednisone. Currently I have taken myself off of the statins and the prednisone to see if I can manage my pain. I have also been following an anti-inflammatory diet for several months and I am now trying to add in some physical therapy exercises geared to help with PMR. I have been off prednisone for almost a week and I do not see that much of a difference in the pain level from 3 mg to zero. We shall see what happens.