Naproxen use during Covid-19 outbreak

MissA

I hear from the media people should avoid anti-inflammatory meds’ like ibuprofen. Does that mean I should avoid taking the anti inflammatory Naproxen? Whilst I will continue with methotrexate should I stop Naproxen as I have been using Naproxen too as my knees have been inflamed. I feel I have contradictory information Im being told having flare ups of my Rheumatoid Arthritis puts me at higher risk of Covid-19 but taking anti inflammatory meds to reduce the flare up is also wrong. Please help give me some clarification.

helpline_team

Hi MissA thanks for your post to the Helpline. The media stories to do with anti-inflammatory meds and treatment of coronavirus came from the French health minister. UK and other European health bodies do not find the same conclusion.

Here's what the NHS website says: 'There is currently no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus (COVID-19) worse.

But until we have more information, take paracetamol to treat the symptoms of coronavirus, unless your doctor has told you paracetamol is not suitable for you.

If you are already taking ibuprofen or another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) on the advice of a doctor, do not stop taking it without checking first.'

If you'd like some support, you are welcome to ring us on our Helpline 0800 5200 520.

Best wishes Guy - Helpline Advisor