Hello @dontknowitall53, You will notice that we moved your post to an existing discussion on the drug Actemra (Tocilizumab) so that you could meet other members like @pmrhater, @dadcue, @mgrogers, @labbadia1, @minijohn and others who may have some information to share on the drug. If you click the link below it will take you to the top of the discussion so that you can read through the posts by members discussing the drug.

-- Actemra (Tocilizumab) to treat PMR??:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/actemra-tocilizumab-to-treat-pmr/

Is your doctor prescribing Actemra (Tocilizumab) to treat PMR, RA or another condition?

I have been taking Actemra (tocilizumab) for almost 4 years. I have been mostly off prednisone for about 3 years. Actemra was prescribed for PMR but my rheumatologist needed to seek approval.

I was treated with prednisone for nearly 13 years and never could taper off. I tried several DMARDs which helped some but ultimately were stopped due to side effects. I now only take Actemra

I started with Actemra injections every two weeks which initially allowed me to taper off prednisone in 7 months. Actemra has controlled my PMR symptoms.

I haven't had any significant side effects from Actemra. My dose of Actemra has been adjusted several times. My pain returned gradually whenever Actemra was stopped.

I am currently doing a monthly infusion of Actemra.

I don't have much information for you as I just started on Actemra last Friday. No side effects so far and of course no idea if it's helping yet.

I'm supposed to reduce my Prednisone by 1 mg every two weeks starting two weeks from the first injection (which are also every two weeks).

Good luck to you!

Judy here- I've been taking monthly actemra infusions for 6 months. Much improved symptoms and able to taper to 4 of prednisone and 4 tabs of methotrexate... hope to get off all but the actemra but it's a slow process for me. Hope this helps!

I have been on Actemra for six months. It has allowed me to taper to 1 mg of prednisone and put my PMR into remission after four years! Wonder drug for me.
Best wishes!