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Tapering pain

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 10 hours ago | Replies (18)

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@dadcue

There are many approaches for tapering off Prednisone. Learning which approach works the best for every person is difficult.

I often don't say what medication unless someone wants to know. The medication that worked for me might not work for everyone. I was on Prednisone for 12 years before I found something that worked for me. It wasn't like I was a fast learner in terms of knowing how to taper off Prednisone. There is no single best way to taper off prednisone that will work for everyone.

Much of what I learned only happened after my rheumatologist offered the new medication to me 6 years ago. I have been off Prednisone for almost 5 years. I'm still being treated but not with Prednisone anymore.

My rheumatologist wanted me to try Actemra (tocilizumab). The main drawback is the cost. I currently do an IV infusion every 4 weeks. I'm very fortunate that it doesn't cost me anything.
https://www.ajmc.com/view/tocilizumab-leads-to-improvement-in-patients-with-active-polymyalgia-rheumatica-despite-prednisone-therapy

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Replies to "There are many approaches for tapering off Prednisone. Learning which approach works the best for every..."

I started Actemra 2 months ago. So far so good and am holding at 3 mg of prednisone without having to adjust upward occasionally. I’m told by doc that it takes about 3 months to get the effects of the drug known. I do have less temporal headaches already. 👍🏻🤞🏻

Thank you Mike. I was just diagnosed with PMR in May. I have learned a lot from your well explained posts in this Mayo support group! Thank you for taking the time to help us all learn.