Access to Hydroxychloroquine for People with Lupus

The Lupus Association of NSW is aware of the potential use of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine for the treatment of coronavirus (COVID-19). This means that these drugs may be in high demand in the coming weeks.

Hydroxychloroquine, a medication taken by approximately 90% of lupus patients to control their condition has received a lot of recent media attention as one of the drugs being trialled as a potential treatment for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine are anti-malarial medicines that can also be effective for people with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Both drugs have an anti-inflammatory effect and can be helpful in treating joint inflammation and skin.

 Researchers in China and France have studied both drugs as treatments for pneumonia caused by the coronavirus. The results were initially promising in small studies. To generate more evidence, the World Health Organization is beginning a multi-country clinical trial of a number of drugs that have the potential to be effective against the coronavirus, including hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine.

Read more……..