Question:
Does anyone have experience with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and low doses of predni

I have been diagnosed with PMR (polymyalgia rheumatica) and my PCP has prescribed low doses of prednisone (10 mg daily 2 weeks; 5 mg 6 weeks). I have researched both on the internet and in the library. Does anyone have real life experience with PMR or with taking prednisone pre or post op? I am 18 months out, have lost 85% of my excess weight (198 lbs). I am particularly interested in the effects of PMR, how long it lasted, how well it responded, etc. Thanks!    — mskarns (posted on February 19, 2003)

February 19, 2003
I don't have any experience with PMR, but I sure do with prednisone both pre and post-op. BEing asthmatic, I have been on prednisone a LOT!!! The year prior to my surgery (2000) I think I was on it more than I was off. The low dose that has been perscribed shouldn't even affect you much as far as the wonderful side affects go. I am referring to the increased appetite and the hyperactivity. I had to be on it for almost a month last month and it drove me crazy. I only got between 2-3 hours of sleep a night and was always hungry. For the first time since my open RNY, I gained weight. It was only 4 pounds, but I FREAKED. Of course as soon as I got off the drugs, I took it right back off. But I was taking 50 mg. for most of the time and then did the taper down to get off it. I have taken a low dose (and much higher) and the low 10-20 mg. didn't bother me much at all.
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