Clear, plain-language guides to the medicines used at the Centre, grouped by the job they do: what each one is, how it helps, its risks, and how you are kept safe. Every guide has a print button so you can take it home.
Which type you have shapes which of these medicines is right. Read the short guide to the types first.
Understanding myositis →This guide is for learning, not medical advice. Myositis care is different for everyone, and many of these medicines are used based on specialist experience rather than a formal Canadian myositis approval. Never start, stop, or change a medicine without your own doctor. Your doses are decided with your care team at the Centre.
Fast, strong anti-inflammatories, usually the first treatment while slower medicines take effect.
Slower medicines that control the disease and let the steroid dose come down.
The most used steroid-sparing medicine, taken once a week.
A steroid-sparing option that is safe in pregnancy.
A steroid-sparing medicine for muscle, skin, and lungs.
A gentle long-term medicine, good for skin disease.
Antibody and targeted treatments, often for disease that needs more than first-line medicines.
Used when myositis affects the lungs. Mycophenolate, azathioprine, rituximab, and IVIG are also used here.
When cold turns fingers white and blue, or fingertips develop sores. A daily aspirin is sometimes added.
The usual first medicine to ease Raynaud's.
Improve blood flow for severe Raynaud’s or ulcers.
A cream near a finger to improve local blood flow.
Reduces new finger ulcers; needs monthly tests.
A drip for a severe or threatened finger.
Because long-term steroids weaken bone, these protect against fractures.
Every medication page can be printed as a clean take-home sheet using the Print this guide button on the page.