How to address PMR pain while decreasing prednisone

What is the amount of CBD you take each day? I have some, but it has no recommended dosage

that is super great you are off prednisone, seems odd that it can take this long. I have dropped to 3.5 mg and going to stay there for a bit before lowering it again, as I find there is more stiffness each time I lower. thanks for your info!

I have another question, while lowering the prednisone to 3.5MG I have noticed the boney bump at back of my neck is more noticeable, and the back of my neck hurts more. I am just wondering if anyone had more trouble with their neck while trying to lower prednisone,

Just curious to know the reason for no wine with Prednisone.I am assuming it also means no alcohol .I am on Prednisone and drink wine with dinner
So far no issues in blood work or effectiveness

Hi @marilyncarkner, this might provide a little insight...

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking prednisone?
-- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325112.php

Good morning, @marilyncarkner . I’m also on prednisone but I’m hoping to taper off as the rituxan (I’m getting today) really starts working! If your on prednisone for a very short time, the doctor may agree that wine/alcohol is ok. For longer time treatment, wine and alcohol are not ok because they both suppress the immune system, can tip you over to type 2 diabetes, and can cause more osteoporosis. I’m not a doctor so I would suggest you have a discussion with your doctor. They know what’s really going on with you and can best advise. I stopped having wine almost 2years ago . It was hard at first but now I don’t really miss it. Wine with dinner really becomes part of life and a hard habit to break, doesn’t it? Will you talk with your doctor and get back to us? We care! Becky

Regarding diagnostic blood tests: Does anyone know of PMR being diagnosed with 3x's normal C-reactive protein results and normal Sed Rate results? In February I started 15 mg prednisone and extreme pain in shoulders, arms, hands, hips and legs disappeared. I could barely move. The C-reactive protein rate dropped to the highest normal level. Dr. began lowering dose every month, and C-reactive protein began raising slightly. I'm now on 8 mg and symptoms began returning at 10mg and continue to get worse. Because the C-protein hovers just above normal, Dr now questions PMR diagnosis and insists I continue to taper even though symptoms are increasing. I read studies at PubMed that say 1-4% of PMR patients can have normal tests. Does anyone have thoughts on this?

Hi @sharync -- Welcome to Connect. I have PMR but it's currently in remission. From what I read the C-reactive protein test is a little more sensitive than the Sed Rate test. Here's a good explanation:

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate and C-Reactive Protein: Old But Useful Biomarkers for Pain Treatment
-- https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/treatments/erythrocyte-sedimentation-rate-c-reactive-protein-old-useful-biomarkers-pain-treatment

Is your doctor a rheumatologist? My rheumatologist started me on 20 mg prednisone and it took me about 3 years to taper off of prednisone the first occurrence and about 1-1/2 years the second time.

I'm being seen by a Nurse Practitioner to a rheumatologist. When I told her of the PubMed studies, she wasn't aware and suggested I see the rheumatologist she works under, but can't get appt till October. I've considered getting a second opinion if I can get an appt with someone else. My main physician did other tests and ruled out Lupus and Fibromyalgia. Thanks for the article - will read now.

Hi. Was diagnosed June 2018. CRP and sed rate normal at every checkup. I understand 20% of pmr patients have normal readings. After one bad flare and too rapid prednisone tapering, I’m now on 12.5 mg. When taper starts from here, it’s going to be small increments and very slowly. Found there is a lot to learn about this disease . Wish you well.