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Kevzara and Prednisone Tapering before and during Kevzara
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: 3 hours ago | Replies (135)Comment receiving replies
It is true that Kevzara does not completely shut down all of the inflammation pathways. However, Kevzara isn't specific to just PMR. Kevzara can work for other autoimmune conditions.
The problem with treating inflammation is that NO single isolated inflammation pathway exists that is specific to PMR or anything else. The inflammation pathways are more like a communication network that transmits messages everywhere and not a single direct line of communication.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a major chemical messenger in this communication network. People with PMR tend to have elevated IL-6 levels but there might be other reasons why IL-6 might be elevated. Also. there are other cytokines that get into the act and contribute to PMR inflammation too. For PMR ... the IL-6 cytokine might be the main one but not the only one.
I don't understand how the immune system works. There are a lot of moving parts and it's impossible to simplify how it works. All I know is that there are hundreds of individual cytokines and there is a lot of network chatter. The communication signals are sent throughout the body but somehow IL-6 inhibitors communicate the message to turn down the inflammation that PMR causes, With a bit of luck ... PMR inflammation gets turned off.
Replies to "@stonewheel It is true that Kevzara does not completely shut down all of the inflammation pathways...."
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@dadcue
Thank you for the clarification Mike. I was oversimplifying the role of IL-6 with regards to PMR only. Yes, it is a “player” in other systems…
Indeed, human bodies (all life forms, simple and complex, actually) are incredibly intricate and involved. The study of which is fascinating to me. I am in awe, perpetually.
I like what the IL-6 “blocker” (saralumab) is doing for me with respect to PMR pain. However, I have to tolerate and monitor (adjusting if necessary) its effects on anc, wbc, and platelet count, just to name a few. But, for me, these being lowered is better than the side effects that I experience on Prednisone.
(The side effects from either could be deadly. Weigh the risks.) My choice is based on my personal view of life quality at my age. I’ve had an interesting life, every additional second is more than expected.
Ramble ramble…
I am choosing to push myself to my limits physically and mentally. My wife doesn’t understand it/my choices. But, I’ll explain it like this, like a firework, I’d rather go out in an explosion than a fizzle. And, I’m not interested in an audience. To each his/her own. Everybody is different.
I do appreciate your shares Mike, don’t stop, and wish you the very best.