The current issues with the coronavirus pandemic have understandably created some questions and stress for many patients. Mixed messages from health authorities and the media can certainly create problems with confusion.
Many patients on immunosuppressant drugs are already aware that they are at higher risk of getting viral and bacterial infections due to the medications they take. This is why there are recommendations for patients on immunosuppressant drugs for digestive health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease to practice good handwashing, to notify their physician if they are having cold or flu symptoms, and to make sure they are up-to-date on vaccinations.
The risks of doing things (taking medication) need to be weighed in the risks of doing nothing (not taking medication and having a disease flareup).
The American Gastroenterological Association he has issued guidance for patients on immunosuppressant drugs with underlying digestive problems. (Link)
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation is also a rational source of information. (Link)
“Patients on immunosuppressive drugs for IBD and autoimmune hepatitis should continue taking their medications. The risk of disease flare outweighs the chance of contracting coronavirus. These patients should also follow CDC guidelines for at-risk groups by avoiding crowds and limiting travel.”
In summary it is advisable to continue medication for underlying inflammatory bowel disease. The risk of having a flare-up which can cause problems such as diarrhea, bowel obstruction, GI bleeding is of greater health risk to a patient than the risk of getting an infection. If immunosuppressant medications are keeping Crohn’s and colitis under control, this decreases the odds of needing to utilize emergency rooms, urgent cares, and hospitals for patient. Avoiding these locations can help a patient decrease their odds of contracting an infection. Therefore good disease control along with the universal precautions being advised by the CDC remained the best defense for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
I hope all of my patients stay well at this difficult time.