PMR

Posted by betsyhase @betsyhase, Feb 10 10:56am

I have just been diagnosed with PMR and started on Prednisone at 12mg. I found out quickly that taking it all at once left me in horrible pain by morning. I found responses here to reduce the morning amount by 2.5mg and take that with dinner or before bed has helped. My PCP is managing for now since a Rheumatologist isn't available for 4-6 months in my area.
Any helpful suggestions are appreciated!

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jeff97 | @jeff97 | Feb 11 9:01am

You would probably get more responses if you post to the Mayo Clinic Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group. There are a lot of existing threads there about the timing of prednisone doses, splitting doses, tapering, etc. Plus there are a lot of active members who have PMR, GCA, or both (like me).

seniormed | @seniormed | Feb 11 9:59am

12.5 is a low side dose. It might help to go higher rather than split.
You may be on long term steroids with slow taper in store.
Take Vitamins D and ask about
osteoporosis prevention if you are at risk. Know you lab numbers as well as
symptoms. Check your BP weekly.
Chronic systemic inflammation also
May alter our cardiovascular risk so
ask about an evaluation. I was border line diabetic and checked glucose at home. Mediterranean diet is worth considering. Prednisone is manageable when we are proactive.

betsyhase | @betsyhase | Feb 11 4:22pm

In reply to @jeff97 "You would probably get more responses if you post to the Mayo Clinic Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)..." + (show)

@jeff97
Sorry, I guess I thought I was.

betsyhase | @betsyhase | Feb 11 4:29pm

In reply to @seniormed "12.5 is a low side dose. It might help to go higher rather than split. You..." + (show)

@seniormed
Thank you for your feedback. I already do most of your suggestions but will keep a closer eye and maybe graph it to track it better.

jeff97 | @jeff97 | Feb 11 5:09pm

In reply to @betsyhase "@jeff97 Sorry, I guess I thought I was." + (show)

@betsyhase I just saw that you posted there.

tuckerp | @tuckerp | Feb 12 8:24am

Nighttime dosage can affect your circadian rhythm. Plus the dosage may not be strong enough to initially stop the PMR. I switched to dexamethasone it has a longer half life. It is also 5-6 times stronger than prednisone so your dosage needs adjusted. Corticosteroids are not your best friend even though they act like it.

beauty44 | @beauty44 | Feb 12 12:03pm

Hi,
This can be frustrating for sure
Today a year later is my last day of taking Prednisone. The side effects can be difficult, but doable. I started on 20 mg. And my Dr started tapering very slowly. At the time I thought it will take forever. Being patient and listening to your Dr is so important. I feel good , I am grateful to be alive . With Polycythemia Vera and Hashimotos Disease anc a terminal son with cancer and 83 years old you learn so much about life and it has many Blessings. Hang in there . I promise you it does get better.
Warmly
Donna

matigans | @matigans | Mar 2 9:26am

Donna
Thank you for your comments especially regarding being grateful and patient!
I am 76yo and have been healthy and active all my life and 4 months ago PMR suddenly appears! Just had my 1st appt with a rheumatologist and she started me on 15mg prednisone. Being that this was so sudden and healthy prior it has been a tough road. I had to remind myself to be more patient and focusing on gratitude. My first priority is better eating habits especially incorporating anti-inflammatory foods.
Bless you for your strength. We all need those encouraging thoughts.
Molly

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