Plaquenil
Generic Name:
Hydroxychloroquine sulfate
Brand Names:
Plaquenil
Plaquenil Description:
Plaquenil is an antiprotozoal, antimalarial medication that is prescribed to prevent and treat malaria in patients who will be or have been traveling in areas with a high risk of malaria. Plaquenil may also be used to treat the symptoms of inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Plaquenil Side Effects:
The most common side effects of Plaquenil are nausea and stomach cramps, but more serious side effects such as significant changes in vision are possible.
For more information, see our Plaquenil side effects page.
Plaquenil Uses:
Plaquenil is used in the treatment of the following conditions:
- Prevention and treatment of malaria
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Plaquenil Interactions:
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Plaquenil, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs should not be taken in combination with Plaquenil, as interactions may occur:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Aurothioglucose
- Digoxin (Lanoxin)
- Iron-containing medications, such as multivitamins
- Isoniazid (Nydrazid)
- Mefloquine
- Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
- Metoprolol
- Niacin
- Quinacrine
- Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)
Plaquenil Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
For the prevention of malaria, Plaquenil is taken as two tablets (400 mg total), once a week, approximately 1 to 2 weeks before traveling to an area where there is a high chance for malaria. Doses are continued for 8 weeks after exposure. The dose for children depends on body weight.
For the treatment of malaria, Plaquenil is taken as four tablets (800 mg total) in a single dose, followed by two tablets 6-8 hours later and an additional two tablets once a day for the second and third days.
For the treatment of arthritis or lupus, Plaquenil is prescribed as one to three tablets to be taken once or twice a day.
Doses of Plaquenil can be taken with a meal or milk to decrease the occurrence of nausea.
Missing a Dose of Plaquenil
If you miss a dose of Plaquenil, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule.
Plaquenil Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication.
Plaquenil FDA Approval:
April 18, 1955
Plaquenil Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is a Black Box warning on hydroxychloroquine and Plaquenil regarding the need for physicians to completely familiarize themselves with the medication warnings and instructions before prescribing the medications.
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