Lupus patients ask if their HCQ stops Covid
Worldwide, lupus patients on hydroxychloroquine have beaten Corona
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) used for treating lupus is making those who suffer from the disease wonder whether they are already protected from Covid-19 or they are still prone to it. The question arose on eve of the World Lupus Day, to be observed on Sunday, when doctors organised virtual meetings with patients and support groups and advised them not to panic.
A good number of lupus patients who have contracted Coronavirus in the West have recovered. Thus, doctors are trying to understand if hydroxychloroquine does safeguard lupus patients from the virus.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which can affect any organ in the body. It creates a butterfly shaped red rash on the face, which can become severe when exposed to sun. Multiple joint pains, fevers and fall of blood count in kidneys are other symptoms of lupus. The disease is seen more in young women from 15-40 years of age.
Dr Raj Kiran, senior rheumatologist at Star Hospitals, said that whether or not HCQ protects these patients from contracting Covid-19 will be known in a few months when more data becomes available. “For now, we are asking our patients to continue with their medical regime and follow norms of social distancing and hand hygiene like others. They have to be very careful not to contract any infection due to their immune-compromised state. This is the biggest risk for them,” Dr Kiran said.
In India, lupus affects one in every 1,000 people, with male to female ratio being 1:11. Global findings during the pandemic have shown that younger lupus patients have mild virus infections while those in senior category are at higher risk, with also instances of deaths. Due to their immune-compromised state, any change in weather conditions, seasonal variations and exposures can add to their risk factors.
Dr Aruna S. Malipeddi, consultant rheumatologist, elaborated, “Any form of sickness in lupus patients, including common respiratory issues, requires that they seek medical attention. In these times, they must teleconsult with doctors treating them and seek updates. This is important as any kind of delay can lead to lot of complications.”
What must a person with lupus do if they test positive for Coronavirus? The person must not stop taking any lupus medications. S/he must inform the doctor concerned about her/his condition and connect with their regular doctor.
Dr Malipeddi said, “It is important that medications for both Covid-19 and lupus are balanced properly. As HCQ is one of their treatment drugs, which is also being used for Covid-19, there is a need for coordination within the medication regimes.”