What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory rheumatologic condition characterized by aching and morning stiffness around the shoulders, hip girdle, neck, and the body. It is often associated with Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), also known as Horton disease, Horton giant cell arteritis, and temporal arteritis. PMR predominantly affects adults over the age of 50, with the incidence increasing with age. The average age at diagnosis is over 70 years.
Symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica
The symptoms of PMR worsen with inactivity, leading to nocturnal pain and significant morning stiffness. This stiffness can be severe and prolonged. Commonly, patients experience symptoms in the shoulders and upper arms, which may result in a restricted active range of motion at the shoulders.
Treatment and Research
Recent studies have suggested that blocking interleukin-6 may be effective in treating polymyalgia rheumatica. Sarilumab, a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the interleukin-6 receptor α, efficiently blocks the interleukin-6 pathway. Sarilumab (Kevzara) has been recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of Polymyalgia Rheumatica.
Other Labeled Indications for Kevzara
Polymyalgia Rheumatica: Treatment for adults who have had an inadequate response to corticosteroids or who cannot tolerate a corticosteroid taper.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Treatment for adults with moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
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