Immunesuppressants?

[Winter64]

If you get an infection while taking immune suppressants, do you stop taking them or carry on?

[vivdunstan Volunteer]

You should ask your GP and consultant, and it does depend on the severity of the infection. But typically immunosuppressants are not stopped.

I have been on immunosuppressants for 14 years. I have never stopped them. Not for colds, flu, swine flu, bronchitis, or even life-threatening chickenpox which saw me admitted to hospital as an emergency case, and put on anti-virals for a week. Nor for shingles that I got years later either.

[Nell]

Hi there

I fully support what Viv has said. It is excetionally rare that the docs will stop your immunosuppessants if you have an infection as infections can trigger a flare. Bit of a catch 22 really but likr Viv I have had a number of infections including shingles but kept on the immunos. Always pays to ask your regular docs though if you're concerned.

Hope you feel better soon

Nell

[John_Mills Volunteer]

Excellent advice from Viv & Nell. Nothing to add really!

[Tiggy65]

Been on immunosuppressants for 25 years and have never stopped them for any infections

[Mumito66]

I stopped my immunosupressant because I wondered if they actually worked.. After 2wks I was virtually immobile and could bareley even wash or dress much less anything else. They help to reduce inflammation all around the body which in turn helps to reduce pain, infections will be picked up because of the compromised immune system. After my expeerience I'd say stick with them but you are probably best to speak to your rhuematologhy consultant or gp