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PMR - How will I know I am in remission?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: May 12, 2023 | Replies (43)Comment receiving replies
At this point, I can see why you don’t stop the Actemra. I have gone back-and-forth with prednisone and Actemra , but never completely left prednisone. I am also talking 12 years, but most of that was with the GCA. I would definitely try getting off Actemra. You can always go back on and I prefer the shots because you can spend them out and use this medicine and taper that way.
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Are you currently taking both Actemra and prednisone?
I took prednisone daily for 12 years for PMR. After Actemra was started, it took me about a year before I was able to get completely off prednisone the first time. It was probably more of an adrenal issue rather than a PMR issue because pain wasn't too much of a problem after Actemra was tried.
When Actemra was being used for Covid patients, I was unable to get any Actemra injections for a period of about six months. I needed to take 10 mg of prednisone and Humira but the pain still wasn't well controlled. When Actemra was restarted, I was able to taper off prednisone again in a couple of months the second time.
My rheumatologist doesn't want me off Actemra if I that will mean that I would need to take prednisone again. I have now taken Actemra for about 4 years except for a couple of interruptions.