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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Actemra A Safe Medication For Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

I was first diagnosed with sjogren s and RA in 2005, Then Polymyalgia in 2013. Now giant cell in Feb 2018 with a sed rate of 88. I ve been on prednisone and sulfasalazine on and off for those 8 years. (mostly on). It works for me but I m 70 and worry about bone mass. I have tried methotrexate and leflunomide with side affects. Now my doctor is suggesting Actemra and I have never tried a biologic and it scares me.
Thu, 24 May 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Biological agents work magically in rheumatoid arthritis specifically and other autoimmune disease also. However it's has its own hazards and are indicated for specific patients. Generally in RA if 2 drugs are not working or if first line drugs cannot be tolerated then it's is advised by specialist. Its works wonders. These is nothing a lot to fear about these. Though it do have side effects but are not very common of given woth full protocols .generally person are tested for hidden tb HBS HCV before it as this can re activate that. Also, if properly indicated and given in don't thing you should worry. Regarding your bone mass if you have steroids for 8 years yous must be taking drugs for osteoporosis or you can check your bone mass with sex scan.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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Is Actemra A Safe Medication For Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Biological agents work magically in rheumatoid arthritis specifically and other autoimmune disease also. However it s has its own hazards and are indicated for specific patients. Generally in RA if 2 drugs are not working or if first line drugs cannot be tolerated then it s is advised by specialist. Its works wonders. These is nothing a lot to fear about these. Though it do have side effects but are not very common of given woth full protocols .generally person are tested for hidden tb HBS HCV before it as this can re activate that. Also, if properly indicated and given in don t thing you should worry. Regarding your bone mass if you have steroids for 8 years yous must be taking drugs for osteoporosis or you can check your bone mass with sex scan. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.