Current therapy of polymyalgia rheumatica

Scand J Rheumatol. 1999;28(5):269-72. doi: 10.1080/03009749950155445.

Abstract

Polymyalgia rheumatica is characterized by muscular pain and stiffness developing almost exclusively in individuals older than 50 years. Most likely, survival is similar to that of the general population, and perceivably neither malignant diseases nor cardiovascular disorders occurs more frequently than expected. Thus, the main aim of treatment is symptomatic relief and the benefit of such interventions should always be weighed against the possible risks of drug induced side effects. The review addresses the therapeutic options in polymyalgia rheumatica, and focuses on oral corticosteroids, intramuscular and intravenous methylprednisolone, deflazacort, and methotrexate.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use
  • Pain
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica / drug therapy*
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica / physiopathology
  • Pregnenediones / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Pregnenediones
  • deflazacort
  • Methotrexate