PMR is mainly treated with steroids, such as prednisone, to lower swelling and ease symptoms. Many people need steroids for a long time. Symptoms often come back (flare) when the dose is lowered. Additionally, long-term steroid use carries risks of significant side effects.

The NEXUS | PMR study evaluates whether an investigational medication combined with a steroid-tapering plan may help keep PMR symptoms from coming back as steroids are slowly lowered and stopped, compared with a steroid taper alone, in adults whose PMR has relapsed.