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What was your experience on Kevzara?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 1 day ago | Replies (100)Comment receiving replies
@dadcue Thank you.
I was diagnosed on November 12, 2025.
I see my PCP on January 18, 2026. I’m taking Prednisone 20mg in the morning and after two weeks went from 20mg to 15mg in the evening. 35mg/day total. Also, he prescribed Omeprazole 20mg daily to protect my stomach.
I couldn’t sleep more than 4 hours, so he then prescribed Temazepam 30mg and that helps me sleep 7 hours. Prednisone makes me irritable and crave food.
I’m walking around in a brain fog because of the Temazepam (I think that’s the cause) and I can’t help but wonder about biologics. Is it too soon for me to ask about taking a biologic or too soon to begin a biologic? Your thoughts and advise are appreciated.
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@stonewheel
It used to be that prednisone was the "only option" for PMR/GCA. The side effects of prednisone were well known . However, since Prednisone was believed to be the only option, there weren't too many other medications that were tried.
My biggest regret was not being started on a biologic sooner. Until relatively recently there weren't any biologics that were FDA approved for either PMR or GCA. Now there are several biologics available and more are coming down the pipe.
https://www.healio.com/news/rheumatology/20250220/tsunami-of-effortbrings-biologics-to-the-forefront-in-giant-cell-arteritis-pmr
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Because of how expensive biologics are in general, it might be hard to get started on one. I think the current belief is that Prednisone should be tried first before switching to a biologic. Usually patients need to have at least one relapse before a doctor considers a biologic.
There is no guarantee that a biologic will work. There are also side effects from biologics although I don't seem to have any serious side effects from Actemra.
GCA patients have an easier time being started on a biologic by a doctor.
PMR patients seem to have to wait to see if Prednisone will work first. Most PMR patients are happy with the immediate pain relief that prednisone provides. There needs to be a greater awareness about the long term consequences of prednisone.
My personal opinion is that it is never too soon to start a conversation about switching to a biologic especially if you are already having side effects from prednisone. Those medications already being started to prevent and/or treat Prednisone side effects will add up.