Corticosteroids in polymyalgia rheumatica--a review of different treatment schedules.

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.