Covid-19 and Lupus: Medication Supply

 

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition, which means your immune system isn’t working correctly. If you have lupus, you might be concerned about COVID-19, as well.

Having lupus means we’re at higher risk for infections, including infection with the new coronavirus and severe complications if you develop COVID-19.

Talk to your doctor about your options and the process of getting a vaccine.

Besides that, Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine are antimalarial drugs that doctors also prescribe for lupus. In early 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved, then revoked, emergency use authorization of these drugs to treat COVID-19 in certain people.

With ongoing concern over COVID-19, increased demand may be an issue, or you may be infected with COVID-19, and filling your prescription may be a problem:

1 Ask your doctor for a 90-day rather than 30-day supply.

2 Request refills well before you expect to run out. Some insurers are allowing early refills.

3 If your pharmacy is running low, ask the pharmacist about other options. Some of them offer free shipping.

4 Call other pharmacies to check their stock. Before ordering, make sure they’re in your plan’s network and, if not, what your out-of-pocket expenses would be.

5 Research auto-refills and mail-order options with your preferred pharmacy.

6 Consult with your insurance company on other mail-order options. Check out the FDA’s tips for safely buying medications online.

7 Discuss temporary dosage reductions with your doctor if your supply becomes limited.

 

Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-19-and-lupus#medication-supply

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