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Tapering off of Prednisone

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Feb 28 5:49am | Replies (313)

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@lizzier

I was diagnosed about 5 yrs. ago with PMR/and possible GCA. I've taken prednisone for all of that time along with Actemra for a couple of years. I'm 84 yrs. old, and tired of this process. I'm now @8mg. pred, and having difficulty tapering any lower. I'm still very active but want to get off of these meds. Please offer suggestions. I eat healthy and exercise regularly except with pain prohibits the exercise.

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Replies to "I was diagnosed about 5 yrs. ago with PMR/and possible GCA. I've taken prednisone for all..."

Hello @lizzier, Welcome to Connect. You will notice that we have moved your discussion into an existing discussion Tapering off of Prednisone where you can meet @kmeikle1, @maddman, @2heal and others discussing tapering off of prednisone.

Has your doctor suggested any alternatives like tocilizumab (TCZ) or methotrexate (glucocorticoid-sparing agents)?

More information here -- Treatment of giant cell arteritis: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/treatment-of-giant-cell-arteritis

Welcome to the group! I too am tapering after a severe bout of PMR that started in January after I received the Pfizer vaccine for Covid-19. I have been following my doctor's schedule of reducing the drug by 2.5 mgs. every two weeks and am down to 10 mgs currently. Next week I will go down to 7.5 mgs. So far, I have continued to improve even though I am cutting back. The doctor advised me that it would take at least three months for me to get completely off of the prednisone. I hope you are able to find some solutions for controlling your pain while you taper.