Tag: Lupus

Approximately 30% of people with systemic lupus erythematosus are thought to be resistant to corticosteroids. A poor prednisone response occurs when a patient does not experience the expected therapeutic benefits from this anti-inflammatory medication, signaling a need for adjusted treatment strategies.

Prednisone, a powerful corticosteroid, can provide life-changing and sometimes life-saving treatment for individuals with lupus by rapidly reducing severe inflammation. It is one of many autoimmune conditions where an overactive immune system is the target of treatment, demonstrating what autoimmune disease is helped by prednisone.

Reports indicate that almost one-third of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients discontinue hydroxychloroquine treatment within five to eight years. Reasons **why do people stop taking hydroxychloroquine** include long-term toxicity risks, perceived lack of efficacy, adverse side effects, and patient decisions influenced by various factors.

Millions of Americans have been prescribed Ozempic (semaglutide) for type 2 diabetes and weight management since its approval. However, rare post-marketing case reports have sparked questions, leading many to ask: **Can Ozempic cause lupus?**

An estimated one-third of people with systemic lupus erythematosus experience ophthalmic symptoms, but the most significant risk of irreversible vision loss is tied to a specific medication. Long-term use of hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), a cornerstone of lupus therapy, can cause a rare but serious condition known as retinopathy, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and managed properly.

Initially developed as an antimalarial drug, hydroxychloroquine (brand name Plaquenil) is now widely used for its anti-inflammatory properties in autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). For many patients, a key question arises: is hydroxychloroquine an immunosuppressant?

The incidence of hydralazine-induced ANCA vasculitis is dose-dependent, rising from 5.4% in patients taking 100 mg/day to 10.4% for those on 200 mg/day for over three years [1.7.2]. So, what are the symptoms of hydralazine induced vasculitis to watch for?

Ivermectin is an FDA-approved medication used to treat parasitic infections [1.2.1]. Recently, its potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties have prompted investigation into a compelling question: Can ivermectin help autoimmune disease?

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, between 15% and 60% of people with a chronic illness, such as lupus, experience clinical depression. For those navigating this dual diagnosis, the question, '**Can you take antidepressants with lupus?**', is critically important. The answer is yes, but it requires careful consideration and close collaboration with your healthcare team.

While up to 37% of users experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, the most feared—if less common—complication of hydroxychloroquine is irreversible retinal toxicity,. This distinction between frequent but manageable side effects and rare but serious, life-altering complications is crucial for patients to understand.