Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial drug used in the long term to treat certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Sjögren’s syndrome. It is typically prescribed for patients with mild to moderate cases of the respective diseases, and the length of treatment is typically between 3 and 6 months.
In some cases, it is used longer depending on the progression of the disease.
Hydroxychloroquine is believed to reduce inflammation and lower the activity of the immune system, enabling the body to fight off the diseases. Additionally, it prevents cell growth and helps prevent organ damage.
Over the long term, these effects may reduce the likelihood of flare-ups and decrease the need for corticosteroids to manage inflammation.
However, long term use of hydroxychloroquine can lead to some side effects. These may include allergic skin reactions, gastrointestinal problems, vision problems, and muscle weakness. In some rare cases, it can cause a condition called retinopathy, which can lead to serious vision issues if left untreated.
Therefore, it is important to regularly check in with your doctor if you have been prescribed this medication for long term use.
Can hydroxychloroquine be taken long-term?
No, hydroxychloroquine should not be taken long-term. It has been primarily used to treat or prevent malaria, although specific dosing recommendations have not been established for its use in other conditions.
As a result, long-term safety is not known and it is not recommended for long-term use. The possible long-term side effects associated with hydroxychloroquine use include liver damage, severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches.
It can also affect other organs, such as the heart and lungs, and cause immune system problems. For these reasons, regular monitoring is necessary if this drug is taken for an extended period. If long-term use is necessary, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of hydroxychloroquine before beginning a treatment plan.
Can you take Plaquenil forever?
Yes, it is possible to take Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) for a long period of time. This medication has been used for many years and is generally very safe, although some people may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, headaches, loss of appetite, and skin changes (including discoloration, changes in color of the eyes, and thinning of the hair).
Plaquenil is usually prescribed as a long-term treatment for certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, discoid lupus erythematosus, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
Since autoimmune diseases are chronic conditions, it is likely that a person will be on Plaquenil for a long time, perhaps even for the rest of their life. However, this depends on the individual and their medical condition.
Your healthcare team will be able to monitor any side effects and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.
Is hydroxychloroquine hard on the body?
Hydroxychloroquine is generally considered safe when taken as prescribed. It has been used for decades to treat malaria, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects are generally mild and may include nausea, upset stomach, headaches, and diarrhea.
Other more serious side effects have been reported, such as vision loss, kidney damage, and low blood cell counts. People who have liver or heart disease, G6PD deficiency, or psoriasis should talk to their doctors before taking hydroxychloroquine.
Additionally, people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor before taking this medication. It’s also important to remember that hydroxychloroquine can cause fetal harm so women shouldn’t take it during pregnancy or when planning to become pregnant.
Does taking hydroxychloroquine make you immunocompromised?
No, taking hydroxychloroquine does not make you immunocompromised. Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial medication that is also used to treat certain types of autoimmune disorders, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
In certain circumstances, it may be used to help prevent or treat certain types of infections caused by certain types of bacteria or viruses. It is sometimes used as part of a treatment regimen for malaria, but it is not used to make someone immunocompromised.
While hydroxychloroquine can cause some side effects that may affect the immune system, such as increased risk of infection and decreased white blood cell counts, it does not specifically cause immunocompromise.
It is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking hydroxychloroquine, as it can interact with other medications and may cause serious side effects.
Is Plaquenil a high risk medication?
Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) is a medication commonly used to treat certain conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. While it is often considered a low-risk medication, Plaquenil does have the potential for certain risks and side effects.
Some of these risks include vision changes and low blood sugar levels. When used in combination with other medications, Plaquenil can increase the risk of serious side effects, including muscle or nerve damage, so it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with this medication.
It’s important to discuss all potential risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
