The use of methotrexate in polymyalgia rheumatica

J Rheumatol. 1996 Sep;23(9):1550-2.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the efficacy and steroid sparing potential of methotrexate (MTX) in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) without giant cell arteritis.

Methods: 43 patients with PMR were treated with MTX 7.5 mg/wk for 3 months. This dose was raised to 10 and finally 12.5 mg/wk MTX if the desired response was not obtained.

Results: No patient benefitted clinically or statistically from treatment with MTX.

Conclusion: MTX is of no benefit in the treatment of PMR.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Blood Sedimentation / drug effects
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use*
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica / blood
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica / drug therapy*
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Prednisone
  • Methotrexate