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GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis) and PMR (polymyalgia rheumatica)

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (314)
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@terrib2

I was diagnosed with GCA in March 2025. Stated immediately on 60 mg prednisone for one week then 50 mg for 5 weeks and now at 40 mg. Started Actemra infusion today. Having a rough time with the prednisone side effects and somewhat discouraged to read how long it takes to get off it. I hope Actemra helps.

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Replies to "I was diagnosed with GCA in March 2025. Stated immediately on 60 mg prednisone for one..."
jeff97 | @jeff97 | May 14 5:30am

I would say you've gotten past the worst part of the high dose of prednisone. I started at 60 mg per day, and I felt quite a bit better once I got down to 40. It took me 12 weeks to get to that point. I had very bad insomnia and stayed groggy much of the time when I was above 40.

The Actemra should allow you to taper faster and should also help prevent flares.

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