A: We don’t know whether taking immunosuppressant drugs further increases the risk of catching COVID-19. But Michael George, MD, a rheumatologist and assistant professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, says that in relation to viruses in general, limited data suggest some of the drugs used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory types of arthritis – biologics (for example, Remicade, Enbrel and Cimzia), JAK-inhibitors (Xeljanz, Olumiant and Rinvoq), and corticosteroids (prednisone) – may contribute to higher risk or severity of viral infection.
A recent large study of people with cardiovascular disease found that hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) does not increase the risk of infection and methotrexate increases the risk of infection only slightly.
The concern with immune suppression is that the virus could replicate more freely and cause more severe or extensive disease, says Dr. Winthrop. For this reason, it’s important if you are taking these medications to contact your doctor right away if you think you’ve been exposed or are experiencing flu-like symptoms. (See question addressing symptoms.) Be sure to state that you are taking immune-suppressing drugs.
Experts warn patients not to stop or change dosage of medication without calling their doctors - Link
MY VIEW
As someone taking MTX for psoriatic arthritis, my view is that my illness is due to an over active immune system and the drug is in effect bringing that down to 'normal' levels.
The 25mg per week I take, in my opinion leaves me no more at risk than anyone else without psoriasis and MTX.
The concern with immune suppression is that the virus could replicate more freely and cause more severe or extensive disease, says Dr. Winthrop. For this reason, it’s important if you are taking these medications to contact your doctor right away if you think you’ve been exposed or are experiencing flu-like symptoms. (See question addressing symptoms.) Be sure to state that you are taking immune-suppressing drugs.
Experts warn patients not to stop or change dosage of medication without calling their doctors - Link
MY VIEW
As someone taking MTX for psoriatic arthritis, my view is that my illness is due to an over active immune system and the drug is in effect bringing that down to 'normal' levels.
The 25mg per week I take, in my opinion leaves me no more at risk than anyone else without psoriasis and MTX.
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