title: Corticosteroids in polymyalgia rheumatica--a review of different treatment schedules.
abstract: Low dose oral steroids (prednisolone 10-15 mg daily) are currently advocated for the treatment of uncomplicated PMR and the dose should be carefully adjusted in relation to disease activity. Intramuscular methylprednisolone has been shown to have a similar remission rate to oral steroids and a better side effect profile with respect to fracture rate and weight gain. Prophylaxis for osteoporosis at least with calcium and vitamin D should be initiated at the start of steroid therapy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Rheumatology, Southend Hospital, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, UK. dr.dasgupta@southend-hospital.thenhs.com
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Dasgupta
mesh_terms: D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D008775:Methylprednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011111:Polymyalgia Rheumatica / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D005938:Glucocorticoids; D008775:Methylprednisolone