METHATREXATE AND CORONAVIRUS

[BACKSADLLE]

As methotrexate lowers immunity, should I stop taking it to reduce the risks of contracting the virus?

[PMRpro]

Please discuss it with your doctors. The official advice is to NOT stop taking any medication.

Far more effective is to adopt the precautions we are subject to in Italy: do all you can to avoid being exposed in the first place. Stay at home as much as possible - do NOT go to the pub, eat out, crowded shops. We can only go to supermarkets and must keep 1 metre distance from anyone else.

Even if others do not "stick to the rules" you can take responsibility and wash your hands, don't touch your face unless you have just washed your hands, don't hug anyone, don't share things with others and run away if someone is coughing - especially without covering their face with a tissue.

If people do this, you and those friends you want to meet with now may still be there to meet with later. If not, they may not.

#I'mstayingathome. And wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands ...

[happytulip]

No. Stick to your meds unless advised to change them by your medical team.

We have a responsibility to keep our chronic conditions under control. If we all come off our meds and go into a flare then that will make you feel awful and possibly put more strain on an already overstretched NHS.