Drug-Induced Lupus

Though most cases of lupus develop as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), certain medications can also induce lupus erythematosus. This article will discuss which drugs and medications trigger lupus-like symptoms and how they may be resolved after ceasing consumption.

*Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.

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The Lupus Foundation of America states that at least 46 drugs may cause drug-induced lupus. Your body can react negatively to one or more of these drugs, which leads to healthy tissue being mistakenly attacked. Though most of these drugs tend to be those that treat chronic disease, heart disease, thyroid disease, hypertension, or neuropsychiatric disorders, there is no obvious connection between the drugs. Additionally, there is no specific criteria for diagnosing drug-induced lupus.

The three most common drugs known to cause drug-induced lupus are:

• Procainamide

• Hydralazine

• Quinidine

Other drugs have a significantly lower chance of causing drug-induced lupus, with some having only one or two cases officially reported. However, it is important to recognize that symptoms may still develop with these drugs.

Some other drugs that may cause drug-induced lupus are:

• Sulfasalazine

• Penicillamine

• Minocycline

• Isoniazid

• Chlorpromazine

• Anti-seizure medications

• Some anti-inflammatory agents, antibiotics, and cancer immunotherapy drugs

• Biologics that treat rheumatic disease by means of the veins

Drug-induced lupus should not be mistaken with drug side-effects that occur after short-term usage of the drug, such as gastrointestinal, neurologic, or allergic symptoms.

The symptoms of drug-induced lupus often overlap with those of SLE. However, symptoms aren’t typically as severe. Very rarely will major organs be affected. Symptoms usually start after continuous consumption of the drug, ranging from a few months to several years.

Symptoms of drug-induced lupus are:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Joint pain and swelling

• Loss of appetite

• Chest pain

• Inflammation, particularly around the lungs or heart (serositis)

Drug-induced lupus can also cause skin changes similar to SLE, such as the signature butterfly (malar) rash and heightened photosensitivity, however these are less common.

Symptoms can resolve fairly quickly after the identification and discontinued use of the drug. It may take only a few days or weeks for symptoms to go away. However, recovery can also last from several months to a full year depending on severity. In the rare case that a patient with drug-induced lupus also develops kidney inflammation (nephritis), they may require more extensive and prolonged treatment.

During treatment and recovery, it is recommended to:

• Avoid taking the medication further in case symptoms return

• Use sun-protective clothing and be mindful of photosensitivity

Your healthcare provider may also prescribe you corticosteroid creams to treat rashes, along with various other drugs to treat arthritis, skin, and pleurisy symptoms.

Drug-induced lupus is an autoimmune disorder with symptoms overlapping those of systemic lupus erythematosus, such as fever, fatigue, joint pain and swelling, and rashes. However, symptoms tend not to be as severe. Symptoms typically go away very quickly after discontinued use of the drug, however it may take up to a year for full recovery. Avoid taking the medication further to reduce the risk of symptoms returning.

What is drug-induced lupus? | Lupus Foundation of America

Medications that can cause drug-induced lupus | Lupus Foundation of America

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus | MedlinePlus

Drug-Induced Lupus | Rheumatology Advisor