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PCP advising fast taper

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Jul 7 6:36am | Replies (28)

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Chronic inflammation is bad but so is chronic Prednisone use.

There are other ways to treat chronic inflammation besides Prednisone. Until relatively recent research, prednisone was considered to be the "only option" for PMR. The belief that Prednisone is the only option is changing if not totally debunked. Biologics are being tried for PMR. Now the research shows that certain biologics might be better options than long term prednisone for PMR.

The problem with "long term" prednisone use is that it suppresses adrenal function and creates a scenario where it is extremely hard to taper off prednisone. I'm not sure how long you can safely take Prednisone but the research shows more and more ... not very long.
https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/long-you-prednisone-safely-3561220/
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In theory, PMR is a self limiting disease for a year or two and doesn't cause any lasting harm.

PMR is generally manageable and the outlook with treatment is often excellent, allowing most people to live normal, productive lives. However, relying on it to resolve on its own within a short time frame and without potential lasting complications like those associated with GCA or long-term steroid use is not accurate.

Sometimes I think treatment with long term prednisone creates perpetual PMR symptoms when we attempt to taper off Prednisone.

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Replies to "Chronic inflammation is bad but so is chronic Prednisone use. There are other ways to treat..."

@dadcue I’m going to ask my pcp about biologics. She has never mentioned this. I’m wondering if there are actually people who are cured permanently of PMR or it’s just in remission or it wasn’t the correct diagnosis in the first place.