I am suffering from PMR for last 2 and 6 months. GP treated for 9 months starting with Pred 25 mg tapering down to 0mg. After 1 month again symptoms appeared. In June 2024 I was referred to Rheumatologist. Had pred for one year. My Rheumatologist started Methotrexate 20 mg when I was taking pred 5 mg. For last 6 months I am taking 20 mg Methotrexate while tapering pred to 1 mg. I will stop pred in April end.
As per my Rheumatologist long use of Pred is more harmful for bones while Methotrexate may affect liver. I was earlier repeating blood tests every fortnight, then monthly and now after 3 months. It was towed monitor liver, kidney function and inflammation.
My Rheumatologist has advised me to stop pred on 01 May onwards but take Methotrexate 20 mg atleast for 12 months to avoid triggering back of PMR. I am convinced. I am now leading normal life after long time.