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What is the goal when first diagnosed with PMR?

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: May 25, 2022 | Replies (18)
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@milld835

On the correct dosage of Prednisone, my pain completely disappeared (20 mg). It was fairly non-existent at 15 mg; now down to 14 mg starting today. Trying to taper. The goal in my opinion is to reduce the inflammation (which is what the Prednisone is for) that is causing the pain. Let your body be the guide. Maybe you need a higher dose? Sounds like it, but you need a Rheumatologist. There are many ups and downs to Prednisone and PMR and it's an individual journey. Wishing you all the best.

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nkdonahue | @nkdonahue | May 23, 2022

My husband was recently diagnosed with PMR. He was a very active, fit 63 year old mountain biker before the symptoms began. Over a short period of time, we showed all of the classic symptoms of PMR. The GP prescribed prednisone. He took 15mg prednisone for several weeks with little improvement of his pain, stiffness, fatigue and difficulty sleeping. His rheumatologist recommended trying 16mg methylprednisolone/Medrol which is metabolized differently than prednisone. The 16mg dose is roughly equivalent to 20mg of prednisone. The rheumatologist thought it might possibly work better for him. Although he is very slowly seeing his symptoms decrease, he is nowhere near back to normal after taking the methylprednisolone for 11 days.

Has anyone in the Mayo connect community had such a slow response to the corticosteroid treatment? Did you eventually become symptom free so you could begin the weaning process?

We meet with the doc again on Wednesday. She requested a CT of my husband's chest, abdomen, and pelvis to rule out other possible diagnoses.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

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