@karinaph, oh gosh, I texted my last response to you before I read this one of yours. Yes, the literature states that Actemra is the "only" medication to help GCA, so far. It's much easier to take than Prednisone. I was on Prednisone for over a year before I was referred to a rheumatologist, who then prescribed Actemra for me. I've been on it for about a year now, coupled with tapering off Prednisone, but now only on Actemra, minus the Prednisone.
It's a funny coincidence your having GCA as well as PMR, because I just placed a call to my rheumatologist today asking if I had been diagnosed with PMR as well. They're going to get back to me. Told them I'm having so much hip and knee pain, as well as shoulders, neck and elbows. Also daily headaches, and two recent blood clots. I realize this could all be from the GCA but as I read postings from the Mayo group, it seems so familiar! I wish you speedy recovery! Take care. Laurie