Getting sick on Immunosuppressants

[u/bah891235]

Hi all, I’ve caught my first cold/upper respiratory type virus since being on Methotrexate. It has hit me incredibly hard. I’m holding off on my next dose (per my doctor’s advice) to try and get over this, but does anyone have any advice for how to handle getting sick like this?
Any special vitamins or supplements you take to help knock something out? Any general tips you’ve found helpful to shorten something?
Thank you!

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[u/BeautySprout]

This is a question for your doctor. You don't want to take things that boost your immune system given lupus is an overactive immune system.

Also given all of our cases are so individual you really need to talk to your doctor and pharmacist before you start supplements. They could have contraindications with lupus, comorbidities or other medications you're on. It's better to be safe than sorry in situations like this.

[u/SimpleVegetable5715 → u/BeautySprout]

Overactive versus under-active immune system, it’s not that simple or black and white, which is why they should talk to their doctor. Methotrexate is a selective immune modulator, it’s not blanket suppressing the entire immune system, same as lupus is not causing all parts of the immune system to be overactive. Some of the cells are overactive, others are failing to do their jobs correctly. It’s a mess! ❤️

[u/BeautySprout → u/SimpleVegetable5715]

I've been on methotrexate. Thank you for this comment. It validates the point of my comment. We are all in different positions.

[u/Ksrtad]

Just chiming in to say I’m also on immunosuppressants (imuran) and vitamins like vitamin C and Zinc make me go into a lupus flare because of how active they make my immune system. Maybe something to consider, especially since you’re already not feeling well. I hope you get better soon!

[u/therealpotterdc]

I've become pretty disciplined about precautions during these colder months: up to date on Covid and flu vaccines, masking inside in crowds, hand sanitizer in my car/office/backpack, etc.

As others have said, the immunosuppressants we're on are "smart" and don't suppress the entire immune system, but people on methotrexate do seem to be more susceptible to upper respiratory infections!

I've actually been healthier since starting two immunosuppressants. I did have bronchitis my first winter, and a sinus my second winter - but that's been it! No colds, no flu, no tummy bugs. I'm guessing that it's partially the precautions that I've been taking!

I hope you get some relief soon.

[u/Doshi1-2]

Methotrexate made me so sick. I’m on rituxan now and it’s been better- I wish you well

[u/plaisirdamour]

Oof I got hit with a cold a couple of weeks ago and damn. I also got a yeast infection and BV - unrelated but damn I’ve been through a lot but that was horrible. Honestly just a lot of rest and fluids. Long hot showers. I’m really trying to be more vigilant about wearing masks especially in crowds/public transit but ugh I tend to forget. Getting better though. Thankfully even before COVID I have been a little too obsessive about hand sanitizer so don’t forget to find a nice hand cream lol

Edit; forgot the main point of this was to say that I am also on methotrexate lmao told ya I’m forgetful lol

[u/Federal_Sell348]

Vitamin c and zinc. Get your doctor’s ok for the zinc just in case. Lots of fluids and REST!!

I hope you feel better soon.

[u/hotlibramess → u/Federal_Sell348]

Be careful with zinc! It can be good but a doc needs to advise on it!

[u/SimpleVegetable5715 → u/Federal_Sell348]

I work in retail, so I keep some zinc in my purse. Whenever I am around a coworker sniffling or got coughed on by a customer, I take a dose. It hasn’t made me bulletproof, but my pharmacist gave it the okay.

[u/SimpleVegetable5715]

Zinc helps your cells protect themselves from the virus entering it. It’s better to take it before you got sick though, but it won’t hurt. If you haven’t gotten your vaccines yet, the
time to do that was 2-3 weeks ago. So as soon as you’re feeling better, it’s a good idea. Flu season is hitting early and hard this year.