Just a tad discouraged

[Darcy2000]

I have Polymyalgia and GCA.I really should not complain as I am pain free and actually feel very well . However as I decrease my Prednisone my CRP keeps rising. I am following Rheumatologist directions and I am currently at 30 mgs going down by 5 mgs weekly until I get to 20 mgs and then it will be 1 mgs per month. Last month on 45 mgs my CRP was18 and today at 30 mgs it is up to 50.. my SED rate is normal..any thoughts on this?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Your doctor should be checking that the GCA isn't running away - and he is crackers reducing your dose at that speed. You need more than a week at a new dose to be sure the new dose is still enough.

If it were me I'd be back at your GP to discuss it - you never did tell us the outcome of the original rise in markers 2 months ago but I assume the rheumy decided it was GCA? Six weeks at these high doses isn't enough - most experts would have kept you at above 40mg for at least a month before even thinking of reducing. Did they say anything suggesting they were testing by reducing speedily?

[Darcy2000]

I actually had the Temporal artery biopsy to determine that it was GCA. I have the utmost faith in my Rheumatologist but will call him today to ask if should stay at my current dose of 30 mgs or increase until my next bloodwork .. I will not drop down to 25 mg until I talk to him

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Darcy2000]

As PMRpro says reducing too quickly-I stayed at 60mg for 6 weeks, then reduced at 3-4 weekly periods - certainly not weekly.

First 6 months your GCA is very likely to flare - even though you may have no pain - if not on enough Pred.

[Darcy2000 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks for your input..