As relayed in the media, Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil, Quensyl,…) is being investigated as a potential treatment for COVID-19 related pneumonia. We all hope that it will help improve the outcomes of those affected by the disease. Unfortunately, in some countries, this has resulted in stock-piling, and the unplanned increase in demand has created shortages, causing anxiety amongst lupus patients that rely on Hydroxychloroquine as base treatment.

Lupus Europe and several national members have raised the issues with National Health Authorities and manufacturers. They are now well aware of the problem and are actively working on solutions. Production is beefed up, manufacturers are working with National Regulatory agencies and Pharmacy associations to help the distribution process and avoid shortages. In some countries, a special process has already been implemented in case a pharmacy can’t find Hydroxychloroquine with their wholesaler for on-label (lupus, …) use. Others will follow.

As a lupus patient, here is what you can do if you face this situation:

1. Do not stock up on Hydroxychloroquine.
2. If you anticipate the need for Hydroxychloroquine soon, talk to your pharmacy to pre-order, and clearly mention that this is as treatment for your lupus. Do not ask for more than you need (i.e. 1 box).
3. Ask your doctor to mention on the prescription that this is for your lupus. In some countries, this will help prioritize supply.
4. If you do not have Hydroxychloroquine anymore, and can’t obtain it at pharmacy:
• Ask your pharmacy to get in contact with the local provider office (“Marketing authorization holder”) on a possible emergency procedure for on-label usage
• Get in contact with your rheumatologist and ask for guidance. In some countries, your doctor might also be able, if necessary, to meet your needs via hospital controlled supply.
• Don’t Panic! While Hydroxychloroquine is an essential part of your treatment, if you have regularly taken it over the past weeks, it will keep its protective effect for an extended period, even if you cannot take it during a limited period. Strictly follow your Rheumatologist’s guidance, both in the period where you might not have access to Hydroxychloroquine, and when you receive your next box.
5. Do NOT self-adjust any of your medication : Do not stop Cortisone, nor immune-suppressant, nor Plaquenil treatments, unless you get instructed to do so by your doctor.

Take care of yourself, and of the others – we will all get through this together!

More information through:

As relayed in the media, Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil, Quensyl,…) is being investigated as a potential treatment for COVID-19 related pneumonia. We all hope that it will help improve the outcomes of those affected by the disease. Unfortunately, in some countries, this has resulted in stock-piling, and the unplanned increase in demand has created shortages, causing anxiety amongst lupus patients that rely on Hydroxychloroquine as base treatment.

Lupus Europe and several national members have raised the issues with National Health Authorities and manufacturers. They are now well aware of the problem and are actively working on solutions. Production is beefed up, manufacturers are working with National Regulatory agencies and Pharmacy associations to help the distribution process and avoid shortages. In some countries, a special process has already been implemented in case a pharmacy can’t find Hydroxychloroquine with their wholesaler for on-label (lupus, …) use. Others will follow.

As a lupus patient, here is what you can do if you face this situation:

1. Do not stock up on Hydroxychloroquine.
2. If you anticipate the need for Hydroxychloroquine soon, talk to your pharmacy to pre-order, and clearly mention that this is as treatment for your lupus. Do not ask for more than you need (i.e. 1 box).
3. Ask your doctor to mention on the prescription that this is for your lupus. In some countries, this will help prioritize supply.
4. If you do not have Hydroxychloroquine anymore, and can’t obtain it at pharmacy:
• Ask your pharmacy to get in contact with the local provider office (“Marketing authorization holder”) on a possible emergency procedure for on-label usage
• Get in contact with your rheumatologist and ask for guidance. In some countries, your doctor might also be able, if necessary, to meet your needs via hospital controlled supply.
• Don’t Panic! While Hydroxychloroquine is an essential part of your treatment, if you have regularly taken it over the past weeks, it will keep its protective effect for an extended period, even if you cannot take it during a limited period. Strictly follow your Rheumatologist’s guidance, both in the period where you might not have access to Hydroxychloroquine, and when you receive your next box.
5. Do NOT self-adjust any of your medication : Do not stop Cortisone, nor immune-suppressant, nor Plaquenil treatments, unless you get instructed to do so by your doctor.

Take care of yourself, and of the others – we will all get through this together!

More information through:
Lupus UK
https://www.lupusuk.org.uk/coronavirus/
Lupus Research Alliance
https://www.lupusresearch.org/hydroxychloroquine-common-lu…/
Lupus Foundation of America
https://www.lupus.org/resources/coronavirus-and-lupus

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2 weeks ago
LUPUS EUROPE

🦋 Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease, and its exact cause is not fully understood.

✋ While various risk factors have been identified, such as genetic predisposition🧬 and exposure to certain environmental🌇 triggers, 𝗹𝘂𝗽𝘂𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲.

🔍 Understanding and managing these risk factors, along with early detection and appropriate medical care, are essential in effectively addressing #lupus and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

🤔 So, how can we #kicklupus with prevention?
... See MoreSee Less

🦋 Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease, and its exact cause is not fully understood.

✋ While various risk factors have been identified, such as genetic predisposition🧬 and exposure to certain environmental🌇 triggers, 𝗹𝘂𝗽𝘂𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲. 

🔍 Understanding and managing these risk factors, along with early detection and appropriate medical care, are essential in effectively addressing #lupus and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

🤔 So, how can we #KickLupus with prevention?Image attachmentImage attachment
4 weeks ago
LUPUS EUROPE

🌟 Calling all Lupus Patient Organisation Volunteers! 🌟

🗣️ Your Voice Matters!

We want to hear from YOU!

❓ Are you a volunteer for a lupus patient organisation?

Your insights are invaluable! 💎

Participate in our quick survey, taking just 2-3 minutes of your time, and help us understand volunteer motivations better.

Your feedback will help shape the future and help us understand what we should work on to make our volunteers happier and more motivated.

✍️ You can answer in English or in your own language.

Ready to share your thoughts?

🔗 Click the link below and let your voice be heard!

s.surveylegend.com/-NfBafeCoorOLsOkK1Du

🤗 Thank you for reading this post and considering answering the survey!

Together, we can make a huge difference! 💪
... See MoreSee Less

1 CommentComment on Facebook

🤷‍♂️

4 weeks ago
LUPUS EUROPE

📆 New month, new challenge!

🍁 As the calendar flips to November, our #kicklupus campaign has a new theme!

🤔 Can you guess what this month's theme is all about?

💡 Hint: It's all about implementing measures to help us hold #lupus at bay!

🙌 Stay tuned for a month of discovery and empowerment as we unveil the importance of these measures in managing lupus.

Ready to embark on this journey with us? 💪
... See MoreSee Less

📆  New month, new challenge!

🍁 As the calendar flips to November, our #KickLupus campaign has a new theme! 

🤔 Can you guess what this months theme is all about?

💡 Hint: Its all about implementing measures to help us hold #lupus at bay!

🙌 Stay tuned for a month of discovery and empowerment as we unveil the importance of these measures in managing lupus. 

Ready to embark on this journey with us? 💪

1 CommentComment on Facebook

💪🏻🍀

1 month ago
LUPUS EUROPE

‼️Despite a higher risk of infection in #SLE patients, vaccination rates are low due to:

🔹Fear
🔹Lack of trust
🔹Feeling of unsafety
🔹Belief in good health
🔹Lack of recommendations by doctor

💡Let's #KickLupus by shedding light on the facts & debunking the misconceptions surrounding vaccinations for people with lupus.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 1️⃣: Vaccines & lupus flares

One of the most common fears among #lupus patients is the possibility of vaccines causing a flare.

✅ Prof. Arnaud states that the risk of flare after vaccination is not confirmed. Typically the benefits of vaccination outweigh any potential, small risks.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 2️⃣: People with lupus should avoid all vaccines

✅ While some vaccines may not be recommended for people with lupus, many vaccines are safe and important.

Protecting against infections is key, as even minor illnesses could lead to complications in individuals with SLE.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 3️⃣: Lupus patients can't receive live vaccines

✅ Live vaccines are not typically recommended for lupus patients. However, in certain circumstances, it may be appropriate for some people to get live vaccines.

It is crucial this is assessed on a case-by-case basis by your doctor.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 4️⃣: Vaccines worsen lupus symptoms

✅ Vaccines don't worsen lupus symptoms. In fact, they help protect against infections, which could be more severe in lupus patients.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 5️⃣: Lupus patients should only get vaccines if they are in remission

✅ According to EULAR recommendations, vaccination in patients with lupus should preferably be administered during quiescent disease.

For patients with active disease, immunisation should not be ruled out & should be assessed on an individual basis.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 6️⃣: One dose of the vaccine covers you for life

✅ If you have lupus, your doctor should assess your vaccination status every year. That ensures vaccination strategies continue to be aligned with your needs & medical history.

Always consult with your doctor. They will tell you which vaccination schedule is safe & effective for you

🌏 Help us #KickLupus by raising awareness of the importance of immunisation.

Check the EULAR recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases:

ard.bmj.com/content/79/1/39
... See MoreSee Less

‼️Despite a higher risk of infection in #SLE patients, vaccination rates are low due to:

🔹Fear
🔹Lack of trust
🔹Feeling of unsafety
🔹Belief in good health
🔹Lack of recommendations by doctor

💡Lets #KickLupus by shedding light on the facts & debunking the misconceptions surrounding vaccinations for people with lupus. 

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 1️⃣: Vaccines & lupus flares

One of the most common fears among #lupus patients is the possibility of vaccines causing a flare.

✅ Prof. Arnaud states that the risk of flare after vaccination is not confirmed. Typically the benefits of vaccination outweigh any potential, small risks.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 2️⃣: People with lupus should avoid all vaccines

✅ While some vaccines may not be recommended for people with lupus, many vaccines are safe and important.

Protecting against infections is key, as even minor illnesses could lead to complications in individuals with SLE.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 3️⃣: Lupus patients cant receive live vaccines

✅ Live vaccines are not typically recommended for lupus patients. However, in certain circumstances, it may be appropriate for some people to get live vaccines.

It is crucial this is assessed on a case-by-case basis by your doctor.

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 4️⃣: Vaccines worsen lupus symptoms

✅ Vaccines dont worsen lupus symptoms. In fact, they help protect against infections, which could be more severe in lupus patients. 

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 5️⃣: Lupus patients should only get vaccines if they are in remission

✅ According to EULAR recommendations, vaccination in patients with lupus should preferably be administered during quiescent disease.

For patients with active disease, immunisation should not be ruled out & should be assessed on an individual basis. 

𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 6️⃣: One dose of the vaccine covers you for life

✅ If you have lupus, your doctor should assess your vaccination status every year. That ensures vaccination strategies continue to be aligned with your needs & medical history.

Always consult with your doctor. They will tell you which vaccination schedule is safe & effective for you 

🌏 Help us #KickLupus by raising awareness of the importance of immunisation.

Check the EULAR recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases:

https://ard.bmj.com/content/79/1/39Image attachmentImage attachment+6Image attachment
LUPUS EUROPE Uniting people with Lupus throughout Europe
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