I have an upcoming rheumatology visit. I need to decide where I want to go from here.

I don't have much to complain about in terms of PMR symptoms while taking weekly Actemra injections. I was allowed to try monthly infusions which might work better than Actemra injections.

MAYBE, I don't need Actemra anymore but my rheumatologist will probably insist that I need something. How does one know when remission has been achieved? The only definition of remission of PMR that I have heard is when PMR "burns itself out" and you don't need prednisone anymore.

I have been off prednisone for 3 years. My rheumatologist has insised that I'm "better off" on Actemra and I should stay away from prednisone. No argument from me and I agree wholeheartedly.

My dilemma is that I don't want to take Actemra forever either. I don't seem to have any side effects from Actemra. I still have residual side effects from long term prednisone use for more than 12 years. I have no desire to go back on prednisone again.

I liked monthly Actemra infusions better than weekly Actemra injections. There was something about an infusion every month that made me feel like there was nothing wrong for an entire month. I probably could increase the time between injections but my rheumatologist doesn't want me to go any longer than 10 days.

There are some other things to consider. My ophthalmologist would rather I take Humira (TNF inhibitor) for recurring uveitis. My ophthalmologist thinks Actemra isn't optimal treatment for uveitis but Actemra "seems to be working" for the time being. My rheumatologist just says it would be impossible to adequately treat multiple autoimmune problems.

I have no idea where to go from here. I'm tempted to say I want to try going without any medications just to see what happens. Anyone have any suggestions?