Myositis and Prednisone

[Sandy]

Hi, I haven't posted here before. I was referred to this site by a friend. I have a nearly 3 year old Labrador Retriever that has been diagnosed with Extra Ocular Myositis. I was wondering if anyone here is familiar with this autoimmune disease? She is being treated with heavy doses of Prednisone. We started at 150 mg per day. She was on this dose for about 4 weeks. Right now we are down to 25 mg per day. It is possible she will have to stay on prednisone for the rest of her life. I am concerned about the long term effects of the drug. She has changed drastically since starting the meds, and I worry what they are doing to her. Does anyone have any experience with using high doses of prednisone? Thanks in advance for any information you can give me.

[Traci]

It's not unusual to prescribe pred for up to 4-6 weeks in initial treatment, then tapering. At any time corticosteroids are given long-term, a CBC should be done to monitor immunosuppression. I don't know about treating with pred for life, but you may have to use it intermittently if the condition reoccurs (acute, or when the orbit is compromised)

Imuran can be used to treat chronic conditions, but this drug too must be monitored carefully. I would suggest a consult with a canine opthalmologist for other options in treatment, and so that you know what to expect in the long term.

[Sandy]

Thank you! Yes, she is being treated by an Opthomologist at UC Davis. I find it interesting that he hasn't suggested any blood work up since she started the prednisone. I will ask him about that. Thanks again.