Myositis: Treatment

How is Myositis Managed?

Early recognition of the disease is essential. This will allow for early treatment for people with myositis. Because it is a chronic disease with no cure, lasting a long time, people often need medical therapy for many years.

There are many medicine options for people with myositis.  Most people require immunosuppressive medicines. This helps control the inflammation and damage caused by the abnormal immune response. Medicines used in myositis include prednisone, hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclosporine, mycophenolate, mofetil, cyclophosphamide, rituximab, cyclosporine tacrolimus and gamma globulin infusions. Each of these medicines has its own side effect and toxicity profile. Each often requires regular blood testing and clinical monitoring to ensure safety.

In addition to medical therapy for myositis, many people require physical therapy, speech therapy and rehabilitation. Under the guidance of rehabilitation therapists, patients learn how to appropriately rest, exercise, and strengthen the various muscle groups affected by myositis.

What is the Role of National Jewish Health?

National Jewish Health is one of the world’s leaders in the study and management of immune diseases, such as myositis.  National Jewish Health also specializes in Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), a lung condition that may be seen in patients with myositis. The National Institutes of Health has designated and funded National Jewish Health as a Specialized Center of Research for ILD. 

Our health care providers have vast experience in treating people with myositis. We provide the expertise needed for the comprehensive evaluation and management of people with myositis. We aim to design an individualized treatment plan best suited for each patient.

In addition, in order to provide for comprehensive care of our patients with myositis, National Jewish Health also provides physical, occupational, and recreational rehabilitative services in our rehabilitation department.