Methotrexate and Corona Virus

[Sin123]

Apologies if this topic has already been posted but as an SLE patient on methotrexate I just wondered if anyone has had a conversation with their doctor on the possible increased risks with being on this medication? I’m assuming we’re very much in the ‘at risk’ category?

[overnighthearingloss]

I think you must have guessed that one for yourself.

More worryingly is that if too many people succumb to a critical version of the virus requiring oxygen support, hospitals may have to make choices over who receives treatments.

Not my words. Those of Dr John Campbell. He is on YouTube.

What we all need to do at all times is to eat as well as possible. Eat nutrient rich foods.

Keeping your body as strong as possible is probably your best defence.

Now more than ever it's time to cut out the junk and eat properly. Proper foods, not constant snacks or treats.

It's probably our best chance of getting past all of this.

Getting adequate good quality sleep is also essential.

[misty14]

It is a worry sin as we are all at an increased risk of a lot of infections taking MTX and other DMARDS. Another top tip is to keep washing your hands specially if you've been out in public places, when you get home do it . also in case you have droplets on your hands, fingers don't then put fingers round mouth or nose area as that's how we can infect ourselves unwittingly with lots of virus's or infections not just corona. Hope that's helpful. X

[miccika1]

I believe yes you are more susceptible to any virus, so wash your hands!!! and don't touch your face with your hands, that's the best prevention. there are plenty of other viruses going around so no need to worry specifically about corona virus.

[MAG68]

As the drug causes increased risk of infection and coronavirus is an infection then there will be an increased risk. I wonder if prescribers of immune suppressing drugs have been given any advice about this?

[Sin123 in reply to MAG68]

Yes, I’d be interested to know but suspect it may be judged on a case by case basis. I’m on 10mg methotrexate a week so a relatively low dose but it may still me safer for me to remain on it than to stop.

[lilly60]

I think the advice already given is all we can do

I am off all damards at the time being I keep picking up infections also had a hip replacement in December and was not healing very well

All is well at the moment see Rheumatoid Specialist next week see what he says

Take care all xxxx