PLAQUENIL (Hydroxychloroquine) 200mg Tab 60's

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS(s)

Hydroxychloroquine

DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION?

This medicine requires a doctor's prescription. It falls under 'Prescription Only Medicine (POM)'.

ABOUT THIS MEDICATION

This medicine is a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases like discoid & systemic lupus erythematosus (DLE & SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (including juvenile idiopathic arthritis) and cutaneous vasculitis. It is believed to disrupt the communication of various cells in the immune system and is particularly effective in treating skin and joint symptoms. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications such as Azathioprine, Methotrexate and Mycophenolate mofetil.

HOW SHOULD YOU USE THIS MEDICINE?

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor/pharmacist or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication with or after food to reduce stomach upset. This medicine does not work immediately. It may take up to 12 weeks or longer before you can notice any benefit. Thus, it is important that you take your medication regularly, otherwise you may not benefit at all. Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF THIS MEDICINE?

This medication may cause the following side effects: - Nausea, diarrhoea or loss of appetite - Headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears or muscle weakness (rare side-effect) - Blurred vision - Transient blurring of vision may occur but this usually resolves in 1 to 2 weeks. - Generalized skin rash, itching, discolouration of the skin, fingernails and insides of the mouth Consult your doctor as these symptoms usually improve or lighten on stopping the treatment.

RESOURCES

Healthhub