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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Polymyalgia Rheumatica While On Prednisone

I have been diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica and have taking 5 mg. of Prednisone a day and 20 mg. of Methotrexate once a week. I quit taking the Methotrexate because of all the contraindications---I have had no issues but just did not want to take Methotrexage. I still have some days in which my joints are achy but nothing totally out of control. Should I stay the course??
Tue, 18 Dec 2018
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello,

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an autoimmune inflammatory illness. It causes pain and stiffness in the joints. It commonly occurs in patients over the age of 50 years. Steroids like prednisone are needed as early as possible in the course of the illness to prevent pain and suffering. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents do not seem to be helpful.

Some patients respond dramatically after only a few doses of prednisone. It is suggested that the dose of steroid (prednisone) that suppresses symptoms be continued for 4 weeks. After that, a very slow taper off the steroids should be attempted. Some patients need to remain on steroids for prolonged periods due to symptom return after a taper is started.

Please see a rheumatologist for the most expert treatment of this condition.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Ivan R. Rommstein,
General Surgeon
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Suggest Treatment For Polymyalgia Rheumatica While On Prednisone

Hello, Polymyalgia rheumatica is an autoimmune inflammatory illness. It causes pain and stiffness in the joints. It commonly occurs in patients over the age of 50 years. Steroids like prednisone are needed as early as possible in the course of the illness to prevent pain and suffering. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents do not seem to be helpful. Some patients respond dramatically after only a few doses of prednisone. It is suggested that the dose of steroid (prednisone) that suppresses symptoms be continued for 4 weeks. After that, a very slow taper off the steroids should be attempted. Some patients need to remain on steroids for prolonged periods due to symptom return after a taper is started. Please see a rheumatologist for the most expert treatment of this condition. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon