I think worth emphasizing that IL-6 inhibitors such as Kevzara work in a way that is completely different than prednisone, which is why they can be taken at the same time. This broadens treatment options.

Prednisone, and the adrenal cortisol it is replacing, are steroid hormones. Which as we all experience are pretty darn effective at controlling inflammation. But at a high potential cost of weakening bones, tendons, etc. (I had three quad tendons detached in my left leg after my first go-round with PMR, which I attribute in part to prednisone weakening of tendons. This was not fun.)

IL-6 inhibitors, on the other hand, work on cytokines. As Wikipedia succinctly explains, "Cytokines are crucial for fighting off infections and in other immune responses. However, they can become dysregulated and pathological in inflammation, trauma, sepsis, and hemorrhagic stroke."

Which is why docs want to make sure you're fully immunized when taking IL-6 inhibitors in place of prednisone.

I'm in the process of getting off my latest doses of prednisone and on Kevzara. It's working for me.

And docs, in my experience, simply don't take the time to explain this stuff in any way that makes sense. Fortunately, we have lots of resources these days, which is why I enjoy this forum for sharing.

Just food for thought.

Barry