Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Plaquenil Used For?
Plaquenil is a medication that contains hydroxychloroquine sulfate and is primarily used to treat various autoimmune diseases and malaria.
Primary Uses
Plaquenil is used for rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), and the treatment and control of malaria symptoms.
How It Works
Plaquenil works by modulating the immune system and has antimalarial properties that help in destroying the malaria-causing parasites.
Good to know: Plaquenil is not addictive.
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How to Take Plaquenil
Plaquenil should be taken as directed by your doctor, typically with meals to enhance absorption.
Dosage Instructions
For rheumatoid arthritis, adults typically take 2-3 tablets daily, which may be reduced to 1-2 tablets. For SLE and DLE, adults take 2-4 tablets daily, also possibly reduced later. For malaria control, adults take 2 tablets weekly on the same day each week. For malaria treatment, the starting dose is 4 tablets, followed by 2 tablets six to eight hours later, and 2 more tablets on the next two days.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose for rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, or DLE, do not take a double dose; just continue with your next scheduled dose. For malaria, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Skin rash and itching
- Hair loss
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Visual disturbances
- Hearing loss
- Suicidal behavior
- Frequent fevers
- Severe chills
- Bruising
- Sore throat or mouth ulcers
- Changes in heart rhythm
- Liver problems
- Kidney issues
- Severe hypoglycemia
- Severe skin reactions
Impulse Control Issues
Some patients may experience mental health issues, including thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider when using Plaquenil.
Who Should Not Take Plaquenil
Do not take Plaquenil if you are allergic to hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine, have a heart rhythm disorder, or are under 6 years of age.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have diabetes, liver or kidney problems, any eye disorders, or a history of low blood sugar levels.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Plaquenil should be avoided during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential risks to the infant.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Plaquenil, affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit juice may affect how Plaquenil works.
- Antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
- Heart medications (e.g., digoxin, flecainide)
- Diabetes medications
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., ciclosporin)
- Antiarrythmics (e.g., amiodarone)
- Other antimalarials
- Antiepileptics (e.g., carbamazepine)
- Tamoxifen
- Certain antibiotics (e.g., moxifloxacin)
- Anticoagulants (e.g., dabigatran)
- Grapefruit juice
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised regarding alcohol consumption and activities requiring alertness while on Plaquenil.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while taking Plaquenil.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery, as Plaquenil may cause dizziness or visual disturbances.
Storage
Store Plaquenil in its original bottle in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Avoid heat and moisture.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Plaquenil, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include headaches, drowsiness, visual disturbances, or seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Plaquenil to show effects can vary depending on the condition being treated.
Yes, it is recommended to take Plaquenil with meals.
No, Plaquenil is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Plaquenil, as sudden discontinuation may affect your condition.
It is advisable to discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor while on Plaquenil.
Weight gain is not commonly reported as a side effect of Plaquenil.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor for safety and monitoring while taking Plaquenil.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.