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Can methotrexate be used as a steroid sparing agent in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis?

Author: BijlsmaJ W, DinantH J, van Albada-KuipersG A, van Booma-FrankfortC, van der VeenM J

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Overview

Methotrexate did not show a steroid-sparing effect in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis when combined with a rapid steroid tapering regimen. The study found that the mean daily prednisone dose could be reduced by 50% in 21 weeks and discontinued in 40% of patients within two years.
Paper Details　
Original Abstract of the Article :
OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether methotrexate (MTX) has a steroid sparing effect in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA). METHODS: We carried out a randomised double blind, placebo controlled study in 40 patients with PMR, six of whom also had clinical sympt...See full text at original site
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引用元：
https://doi.org/10.1136/ard.55.4.218

データ提供：米国国立医学図書館（NLM）

Methotrexate: A Steroid-Sparing Solution for PMR and GCA?

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) are inflammatory conditions that often require long-term treatment with corticosteroids. This study investigates whether methotrexate (MTX), a commonly used immunosuppressant, can reduce steroid dependence in patients with PMR and GCA.

Seeking a Steroid-Free Oasis

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found no significant difference in the steroid-sparing effect of MTX compared to placebo in patients with PMR and GCA. While most patients were able to reduce their steroid dose, this was independent of whether they received MTX or placebo. This suggests that MTX, despite its potential for immunosuppression, might not be a reliable steroid-sparing agent in these conditions.

Navigating the Desert of Treatment Options

This study underscores the ongoing need to explore alternative treatment strategies for PMR and GCA to minimize steroid dependence and associated side effects. It's like searching for a hidden oasis in a vast desert, seeking a solution that can provide long-term relief without the burden of significant risks. Further research is needed to identify effective and safe alternatives to long-term steroid use.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

This study offers valuable insights into the treatment of PMR and GCA. While MTX did not demonstrate a steroid-sparing effect in this particular study, it highlights the importance of exploring alternative treatment strategies to minimize reliance on corticosteroids. It's a reminder that the search for effective and safe treatments for complex inflammatory conditions is an ongoing journey, much like a researcher traversing a vast desert, seeking new and unexplored paths to healing.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 1996-09-30
  2. Date Revised 2019-05-03
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

8733437

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

10.1136/ard.55.4.218

SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

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