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May prescription medication make me more susceptible or potentially worsen symptoms?

May prescription medication make me more susceptible or potentially worsen symptoms?

Regarding CoVid 19, there is not enough information to determine if medications may contribute to risk. There continues to be well-documented evidence that sick individuals, especially those who are elderly and have chronic conditions, are more likely to die if infected with SARS-CoV-2. These people are usually on at least one, and often multiple, medications. There is historical evidence showing a relationship between drugs that impact the immune system and an increase in morbidity (disease) and mortality.

The American College of Rheumatology posted the following question and answer:

Should patients who are taking prednisone, DMARDs (Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs), or other drugs for their rheumatic diseases stop them?

All patients should talk to their rheumatologist or rheumatology professional prior to discontinuing any of their medications. While there are no data on the influence of these medications on COVID-19, providers should follow their current practice for interrupting therapy during episodes of infection. https://www.rheumatology.org/announcements

A list of those drugs is provided here:

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

  • ciclosporin.
  • cyclophosphamide.
  • hydroxychloroquine.
  • leflunomide.
  • methotrexate.
  • mycophenolate.v
  • sulfasalazine.

The most common biologics include:

  • abatacept (Orencia)
  • rituximab (Rituxan)
  • tocilizumab (Actemra)
  • anakinra (Kineret)
  • adalimumab (Humira)
  • etanercept (Enbrel)
  • infliximab (Remicade)
  • certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)
  • golimumab (Simponi)

In general, any drug that suppresses immune function should be avoided during periods of possible infectious contagion.

For a more comprehensive list of immunosuppressant pharmaceuticals, visit: https://www.healthline.com/health/immunosuppressant-drugs#drug-list

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