We are aware of the increase in a number of coronavirus cases in the US and are continuously monitoring and reviewing this matter, especially as it pertains to our patients and staff. Our greatest concern is for our patients who are on prescriptions for skin, hair, or mucosal diseases that may alter and weaken the function of their immune system. For patients on these medications, if they feel like they have an infection of any sort, we recommend they consider holding their medication until they feel well again—having recovered from the infection.
Additionally, if it comes to pass that we have an increasing number of cases of coronavirus in Omaha or surrounding communities, we foresee that some patients may consider stopping their medication until circumstances have changed and concerns surrounding coronavirus have subsided.
Coronavirus Statement 2020
There are many unknowns about susceptibility to the coronavirus infection and exactly why it may affect some individuals more severely than others. Certainly, it stands to reason that the medication you take does alter and, in some ways, suppress the immune system. This would raise concern it could potentially increase the severity of any infection—including a coronavirus infection. Under the current circumstances, the decision to either continue or stop your medication is not an easy one to make. If you do choose to stop it, we would recommend a follow-up visit to our office soon so we can monitor the progress of your condition and, if necessary, try to identify alternative medications that may be used in the meantime.
We understand that naturally many of our patients would have additional questions. Each person’s circumstances are unique. In addition to this information, here are two sources of information you may consider. First, the CDC government web page on coronavirus is an excellent resource.
FAQ
Travel – Presently we are discouraging all unnecessary international or domestic travel for patients on the medications listed below.
If you feel any signs or symptoms of an infection, discontinue your medicine immediately. If these symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting with your primary care physician or local emergency room.
For additional information about coronavirus, please refer to the CDC webpage Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html or the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak page of the World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Medications
- Azathioprine
- Humira
- CellCept
- Methotrexate Dupixent
- Cimzia
- Remicade
- Cosyntex
- Skyrizi
- Cyclosporine
- Stelara
- Enbrel
- Taltz
- Clinical Trial Medications
If you have other concerns you want to further address with us, we would be happy to assist you to set up a follow-up appointment with your dermatology provider.
