Plaquenil Safety: 10 Things You Should Know

Plaquenil is considered an older disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug or DMARD. Plaquenil, generic hydroxychloroquine, has been prescribed for years to treat rheumatoid arthritis patients as well as patients with lupus, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases.

When the newer biologic DMARDs began receiving FDA-approval in 1998 and subsequent years, it seemed Plaquenil would become less prescribed. The medication still has a place for arthritis patients who try and fail biologics, cannot tolerate biologics, or for those who fear trying the newer biologic drugs.

Plaquenil, being a DMARD, is a slow-acting medicine. Patients taking Plaquenil may begin to notice improvement after one or two months. It can take up to six months before full benefits of Plaquenil are realized. It's important to watch for possible side effects and toxicity.

• What possible drug interactions may occur with Plaquenil?
• What are the safety warnings for Plaquenil?
• What are the potential side effects of Plaquenil?

Plaquenil safety is important for arthritis patients. Plaquenil safety decreases the chance for unwanted side effects. Plaquenil must be taken according to directions. If you take the drug, here are 10 Things You Should Know About Plaquenil.

Related Resources:

• Biologic Response Modifier: What is It?
• Arthritis Drugs: What are My Options?
• Are Some Patients Unsuitable Candidates for Biologic Drugs?
• Plaquenil May Reduce Diabetes Risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

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