diagnosed with PMR 3 months ago was put on perdisalone for 2 months then suddenly stopped. Pain returned told to take Ibuprofen. What now?

[Conny]

[Annodomini]

I am shocked. Sudden withdrawal from Prednisolone is dangerous. Who took you off them? Whether it was your GP or a consultant, you need a second opinion urgently.

[Conny in reply to Annodomini]

Thank-you Conny

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hello Conny

I echo all that Annodomini has said. It's difficult to answer your question any further without more information, particularly as to why the Prednisolone was stopped so suddently - could the reason be that the GP decided you were having a bad reaction to the steroids for instance or that you didn't have PMR after all? The return of the pain suggests otherwise. You need to talk to your GP. Good luck and do let us know how you get on.

[Limoqueen in reply to Celtic]

I know for a fact that some doctors whether it be GP'S or hospital consultants consider that PMR is not treatable with steroids and that normal every day painkillers are the answer,they say that PMR does not respond to steroids.I personally disagree with this as a I have GCA and PMR and my PMR does vary in accordance with my steroid dose for my GCA.I'm one of the lucky ones with these complaints that my GP listens to me and is very understanding.

[Conny in reply to Limoqueen]

Many thanks for help. Conny

[Conny in reply to Celtic]

Thanks for your help it was my doctor who decided not to give me predisolone any more. Conny

[Narducci]

Prednisolone should never be suddenly discontinued!

Like most other medication, if being discontinued, it should be gradually reduced.

I do believe though that it is necessary for your condition.

Do get another opinion.

You should be closely monitored as PMR inevitably becomes GCA if left untreated.

Take care

[Conny in reply to Narducci]

Many Thanks For Your help. Conny

[polkadotcom]

I think you need to get back to your doctor/rheumatologist quickly and find out the reason why the steroids were stopped. Although untreated PMR doesn't always lead to GCA (I can't remember the percentage where GCA follows on, but it is quite small) PMR can be a very painful condition itself.

As already said, suddenly stopping steroids for whatever reason is dangerous as it can lead to other serious problems anyway. You do need to see someone about it soon.

[Conny in reply to polkadotcom]

Many thanks for you help. Conney