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Using methotrexate with PMR

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (37)
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@jenbillig

I just printed your reply and will take it to my Dr. I have been battling both my PMR and GCA. My PMR seems fine. I am 86 years old and very active. Only take one other medicine for my stomach and that’s all. My GCA however is a tough nut to crack. Have had it for 6 years with ups and downs. I am OK with 4mg of prednisone but it flares up each time. I can’t seem to get below it? Thanks for the info.

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Replies to "I just printed your reply and will take it to my Dr. I have been battling..."
pattiobrien111 | @pattiobrien111 | 5 days ago

Hi,
So you know, GC’s (prednisone) are the frontline treatment for GCA. MTX is a GC sparing agent as we know the long term side effects of using steroids. I believe there are some other drugs as well, but am not familiar. You would need to discuss this with your doctor. All medications have side effects and each of us are beholden to them in different ways. Some folks tolerate long term steroids with no significant issues an others do not. Patient education is critical in understanding this. Also are any co-morbidities you may have. This is between you and your doctor re: discussion. The thing with GCA is losing vision. So it’s important to stay on your current regimen of GC’s (aside from other issues that can stem from GCA). Bring a pad of paper an write everything down when you see your doctor. Also, have all the questions for him/her before your appointment.
I wish you the best.

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