Drug-induced lupus erythematosus: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency care for:

   • Severe difficulty breathing
   • New or intense chest pain
   • Fainting or severe weakness
   • A seizure, confusion, or sudden loss of movement
   • A severe rash with blistering, peeling, or sores in the mouth or eyes

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice if symptoms are worsening, if a rash is spreading quickly, or if pain and fever are interfering with normal activities.

   Blood in the urine, reduced urination, new leg or facial swelling, or unusual bruising also need prompt assessment.

   These symptoms are not specific to drug-induced lupus, but they can indicate serious inflammation or another urgent medicine reaction.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop ongoing joint pain, muscle aches, unexplained fever, fatigue, or a new sun-sensitive rash after starting or continuing a medicine.

   Bring an up-to-date list of everything you take, including supplements and non-prescription products.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is having side effects from a medicine, or is struggling to take it as prescribed
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Drug-induced lupus erythematosus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.