Understanding Polymyalgia Rheumatica: A Fresh Look at Treatment

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common inflammatory condition in older adults, often linked to giant cell arteritis. It's the second most frequent inflammatory rheumatic disease in this age group, following rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, guidelines for treating PMR have been updated, focusing on the latest research from July 2016 to January 2024. The update includes new recommendations on treatments and factors that influence the course of the disease. A team of experts, including doctors, healthcare professionals, and patients from three countries, developed these guidelines. They simplified some recommendations from the previous version to make them easier to use. The core treatment still involves starting with glucocorticoids, like prednisone, right after diagnosis. The dose is typically between 15-25 mg per day. After starting treatment, the dose is gradually reduced while keeping an eye on the disease's activity and any side effects. For patients who experience relapses, additional treatments like interleukin-6 receptor blockers, methotrexate, or rituximab may be considered. These treatments can also be an option for new PMR cases where there's a high risk of side effects from glucocorticoids. Older or frail patients are encouraged to follow a personalized exercise program alongside their medication. The goal of these updated guidelines is to help doctors make informed decisions, ensuring consistent and high-quality care for all PMR patients. However, it's important to note that while these guidelines provide a solid foundation, individual patient needs and responses to treatment can vary. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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