Please speak with your rheumatologist before considering any change to your treatment plan. They are an expert on your health!
However, the following points are recommendations for clinicians by the ACR COVID-19 Clinical Guidance Task Force:
- Hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine (HCQ/CQ), sulfasalazine (SSZ), methotrexate (MTX), leflunomide (LEF), immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine), biologics, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be continued (this includes patients with giant cell arteritis with an indication, in whom IL-6 inhibitors should be continued, if available).
- Denosumab may still be given, extending dosing intervals to no longer than every 8 months, if necessary to minimize healthcare encounters.
- For patients with a history of vital organ-threatening rheumatic disease, immunosuppressants should not be dose-reduced.