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Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Meet others & Share Your Story
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Nov 18 7:12pm | Replies (1907)Comment receiving replies
Hi,
I am newly diagnosed with PMR since July and have been on Predisone since then. Started at 20mg and now on 15mg but not responding as well as my dr. thinks I should. I still have quite a bit of pain/discomfort but can manage since I've added Tylenol to my daily regime. I know it's not an anti inflammatory but it seems to be helping. Since I've not responded well to the reduction to 15 mg my doctor wants me to try Kevzara. I'm apprehensive about the potential side effects but not even sure I will try it since the cost is extremely high for me. Almost $2000 every 28 days after insurance. Has anyone had any luck having this administered at the doctors office so that it is covered by medicare part B?
Replies to "Hi, I am newly diagnosed with PMR since July and have been on Predisone since then...."
Why doesn’t your doctor try upping your prednisone? I’m not a doctor, but just curious. Every medication, including Tylenol, has side effects. Seems like is a decision on what works best vs side effects.
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The drug inhibits the IL-6 cytokine that that is instrumental
in PMR symptoms. If your ESR and CRP remain elevated
it may be worthwhile for a trial of several months.
Assuming you don’t qualify for manufacturer’s assistance
program. Keep up your calcium and D intake with active
exercise as tolerated. I can’t find a reference to Medicare
payment for office dosing. Part D could help reduce cost
a bit more. Actemra is another option to research.
Study all your option. It took me a year to make the decision
to start a disease modifying antibody to wean off prednisone.