New Methotrexate Study in PMR

"Methotrexate is currently recommended by both international and local guidelines as the first-line steroid-sparing drug to consider in polymyalgia rheumatica. These recommendations acknowledge that the evidence to support this advice is of poor quality. "
The Australian Prescriber - an independent peer-reviewed journal providing critical commentary on drugs and therapeutics for health professionals.

Thank you for posting that study. At this week's doctor's appointment I asked about the possible later use of methotrexate if I have a second flare. My doctor was not keen and said we should take things step by step. That study, along with others I'd found earlier which show minimal if any benefit of methotrexate in reducing prednisone (along with a lot of possible detrimental effects), solidifies my intention to avoid methotrexate.

I asked my GP what he thought about Methotrexate for PMR and he just said " can't comment on the Rheumatology, I just deal with a lot of the severe infection side effects from taking it" that was enough for me. My Rheumatologist is still pressuring me to take Methotrexate or Leflunomide despite the fact that Plaqunil has been working for me, without the awful side effects. She also completely denied my bad experience of taking the drug, told me it was all in my head !! I suspect this type of medical bullying and gaslighting is not uncommon when Rheumatologists are dealing with 'frail old ladies'. Thank you for posting this, it validates my experience.