Latest news in Rheumatology
Here you will find all the latest news from our Rheumatology team/department
21.10.2025- COVID vaccinations
If you are taking any of the following medication you are eligible for a Covid booster and flu vaccination this year.
- You do not need to wait to be invited to book an appointment by your GP surgery. Vaccinations can be booked via the NHS online booking site: you need to tick YES you are eligible for a vaccine as you have a weakened immune system. You will then be able to select a venue, date and time and book an appointment. When you attend the appointment, you may be asked questions to confirm why you are eligible
- For patients on Rituximab, if you are due an infusion, it is recommended that you have your Covid vaccination at least 4 weeks before the infusion.
|
DMARDs (Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs) |
Biologics | JAK-inhibitors |
|---|---|---|
| Azathioprine | Abatacept | Baricitinib |
| Ciclosporin | Adalimumab | Filgotinib |
| Cyclophosphamide | Anakinra | Tofacitinib |
| Leflunomide | Apremilast | Upadacitinib |
| Methotrexate | Belimumab | |
| Mycophenolate | Bimzekizumab | |
| Sulfasalazine |
Certolizumab pegol |
|
| Tacrolimus | Etanercept | |
| Golimumab | ||
| Infliximab | ||
| Ixekizumab | ||
| Rituximab | ||
| Sarilumab | ||
| Secukinumab | ||
| Tocilizumab | ||
| Ustekinumab |
21.10.2025 - Rheumatology advice line
Due to staffing issues the rheumatology advice line is open 10.00-13.00 on Monday and Tuesday, and 10.00-12.30 on Wednesdays. These times are subject to change at short notice.
17.01.2025 - Sulfasalazine
We are aware that some patients are struggling to get hold of sulfasalazine EN 500mg tablets from community pharmacies.
The following suggestions may help:
- Ensure it is prescribed generically as “sulfasalazine EN tabs 500mg” (Not “Salazopyrin” or “Pfizer” brand)
- Tablets are available from AAH and Unichem - patients should enquire at their pharmacy whether they can order from these suppliers.
26.11.2024 - Tyenne
There is a shortage of Tyenne pens. Normal delivery frequencies have now resumed for existing patients but, until February/March 2025, Sciensus will only be offering new patients pre-filled syringes and not pens.