COVID Booster, Prednisone and PMR

I was also wondering if there was a difference in the strengths of the so-called "booster shot" and the "third dose." In addition, I wanted to know whether the supplementary shots contained the same amounts of vaccine as initial ones. From the information I have been able to find, the dosages of either of these are identical to each dose of the original vaccine. I hope this is helpful.

I am still on 7 mg of prednisone for my adrenals. This is after PMR and GCA for 10 years. I also take Actemra shots bi monthly. Had 3 shots of vaccine. Is there any hope of immunity with me.

I just spoke with my rheumatologist and since my PMR began after my second Covid injection my antibodies should not have been affected so there is no rush for me to get it. I had my second Covid injection on 3/4 and was not diagnosed with PMR until May it was May when I began my steroids and about a month later I began the methotrexate. So she said whenever it is available to the general piblic then I should get it.

Hi Marilyn,
You're right that even 3 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine might not fully protect people from COVID-19 who have a weakened immune system that is caused by HIV, certain conditions or medications. You are advised to continue taking precautions, like masking, distancing, hand washing etc.

Mayo Clinic recommends that all eligible people to get the COVID vaccine. A high vaccination rate is our best chance at helping people like you who are immunocompromised.

You might find this article helpful.
– High vaccination rate is key to future course of COVID-19 pandemic, Mayo Clinic computer modeling shows https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/high-vaccination-rate-is-key-to-future-course-of-covid-19-pandemic-mayo-clinic-computer-modeling-shows/

Are the people around you also vaccinated?

I’ve been wondering about when to get and if to get my third shot. I started feeling the PMR symptoms after my Moderna shots in April, then diagnosed in July. Started on prednisone but now tapering. Are you on both prednisone and methotrexate? Getting a DEXA soon and worried about bone density. Is methotrexate easier on bones?

Any of us on steroids need to check antibodies regularly. We must also remember our own protection is all we can depend on. Like masks, social distancing, good hygiene. This too shall pass.

Had a phone appointment with my primary care physician yesterday. Currently on 4 mg prednisone. I had Moderna in March and she said I could get the booster now. When I got the first and second shots, I had to go up on the prednisone because I got more symptomatic. I’ll see what happens this time. I’m ready to begin tapering to 3 mg, but will wait until after the booster.

I am currently on 5mgs of prednisone. Had my booster last week. So far so good....

Not willing to take the booster. It would up my prednisone and I mentally can’t do that. I have an infusion monthly forever. There’s just so many side effects from prednisone ‼️‼️

Weis market pharmacy told me federal guidelines were that I had to be on 20 mg. Prednisone per diem to qualify now for a booster. The woman would not let me schedule because I am on 4-6 mg. a day and have been since 2012. I have to look into this. My last Pfizer was March 3. Thanks for your report.