Comments by my Rheumatologist yesterday re medication and Covid-19

[Scottishlad]

Had my annual appointment with my Rheumatologist yesterday. I'm on hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate and Cimzia. She said the MTX and biologic do raise the risk of problems from the virus a little, stopping them would raise inflammation levels in my body and that would be a greater risk.

Obviously if I feel unwell I should miss a dose of the MTX and Cimzia. The same would apply if thought I had been exposed to an infected person.

I am under 70 and in good health if you are in a similar position this may be of some reassurance to you until you are able to specific advice.

[Hidden]

Thank you

[Gnarli]

Many thanks

[Boxerlady in reply to Gnarli]

I had to ring my rheumy nurse helpline this morning (re painkillers so will update that thread) and the recorded message said not to stop taking medication unless you have symptoms/suspect you have Covid 19 - so the same as any infection really. I found that reassuring.

[Gnarli in reply to Boxerlady]

Me too, Boxerlady and thanks again

[Monkeysmum]

Thanks for sharing Scottishlad.

[nomoreheels]

That makes good sense Cecil, what I’d expect to be told. I don't understand why you'd want to risk flaring if there was no need to stop taking your meds. Thanks for the info. I'm due to have a Rheumy appointment Fri next week & would,be surprised if I’m told different.