It is your right to choose not to treat lupus without medication. It is not a good idea to stop any medication without discussing it with your doctor first.
April 4
It is your body and your choice. All I will say is I refused to take medicine for years and suffered because of it. I didn’t realize how bad I was feeling every day until I tried medication and could t believe what a difference it made. Ultimately it’s up to you and the symptoms you are dealing with!
April 5
What happens if you decide not to take any lupus medicine?
Choosing not to take medication for lupus can lead to increased disease activity and flares. Lupus medications don't cure the condition — they help control inflammation and keep symptoms manageable. Without medication, your immune system may become more active Show Full Answer
What happens if you decide not to take any lupus medicine?
Choosing not to take medication for lupus can lead to increased disease activity and flares. Lupus medications don't cure the condition — they help control inflammation and keep symptoms manageable. Without medication, your immune system may become more active, potentially causing damage to organs and tissues over time.
Many people with lupus take medications like hydroxychloroquine long-term specifically to prevent flares and protect their organs. Studies show that stopping these medications significantly increases the risk of experiencing a lupus flare.
If you're considering stopping your medications, it's really important to talk with your rheumatologist first. They can help you understand:
- The specific risks based on your lupus activity
- Which organs might be at risk without treatment
- Whether there are alternative treatment options that might work better for you
- How to safely adjust your treatment plan if needed
Your doctor knows your medical history and can work with you to find an approach that balances effectiveness with your concerns about medication.
April 4
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