Can a single drug free PMR patients from steroids?

NCT ID NCT05533164

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Sint Maartenskliniek Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This phase 3 trial tests whether rituximab, a drug that calms certain immune cells, can help people with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) stop taking steroids without their symptoms returning. The study includes 174 adults who are currently experiencing a PMR relapse and cannot lower their steroid dose below 5 mg per day. Participants receive either rituximab or a placebo, and researchers track how many achieve steroid-free remission after one year.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Rituximab (a drug that targets certain immune cells)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a steroid-free option for people with polymyalgia rheumatica, reducing long-term side effects from steroids.
What could go wrong: This is a phase 3 trial, but previous evidence was small and short. Rituximab can increase infection risk, and it may not help everyone achieve steroid-free remission.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

polymyalgia rheumatica

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

POLYMYALGIA RHEUMATICA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Sint Maartensklineik

Ubbergen, Gelderland, 6574 NA, Netherlands

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