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How does your pain come back when decreasing dosage?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (57)Comment receiving replies
@dadcue thanks, Mike. Great info. My PCP has never suggested Actemra or any other option for me. I’m at 2.5, down from 20mg in Dec ‘24. I saw her in June for a physical and the taper schedule seemed fine. Coincidentally, today she sent an email telling me I’ve been on prednisone long enough and asking how I’m doing.
Replies to "@dadcue thanks, Mike. Great info. My PCP has never suggested Actemra or any other option for..."
@susanalka
As for biologic, my Rehumy put me on KevzaRa to help me get off prednisone. So far a success. 35 wks Kevzara
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@susanalka
"Coincidentally, today she sent an email telling me I’ve been on prednisone long enough and asking how I’m doing."
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Some people interpret this to mean that their doctor would like for them to taper off Prednisone faster. My rheumatologist "encouraged" me and offered "suggestions" that might help me get off Prednisone sooner. I interpreted the encouragement and the suggestions were because of her concern for my overall health and well being.
You are doing great to have tapered down from 20 mg to be at 2.5 mg in less than a year. I hope you don't have a relapse. I think most rheumatologists will only consider a biologic after you experience a relapse. Biologics like Actemra are currently being used for "relapsing PMR" or "refractory PMR."
There are several biologics available now but more options might be available in the future.
https://www.healio.com/news/rheumatology/20250220/tsunami-of-effortbrings-biologics-to-the-forefront-in-giant-cell-arteritis-pmr.