This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Plaquenil Sulfate Consumer Information
PLAQUENIL SULFATE
Generic Name: hydroxychloroquine (hye drox ee KLOR oh quinn)
Brand Names: Plaquenil Sulfate, Quineprox
What is the most important information I should know about hydroxychloroquine?
- Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Hydroxychloroquine may cause visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing. Report any vision or hearing changes to your doctor.
What is hydroxychloroquine?
- Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial drug and an analgesic (pain reliever). The exact way that hydroxychloroquine works is unknown.
- Hydroxychloroquine is used to treat and prevent malaria. Hydroxychloroquine is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus.
- Hydroxychloroquine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking hydroxychloroquine?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- had an allergic reaction to previous hydroxychloroquine therapy,
- glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency,
- ever had eye damage or visual changes due to hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine (Aralen),
- psoriasis,
- porphyria, or
- liver disease.
- You may not be able to take hydroxychloroquine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- It is not known whether hydroxychloroquine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take hydroxychloroquine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- It is not known how hydroxychloroquine will affect a nursing infant. Do not take hydroxychloroquine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take hydroxychloroquine?
- Take hydroxychloroquine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- Take hydroxychloroquine with food to lessen stomach upset.
- Store hydroxychloroquine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a hydroxychloroquine overdose include headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, visual changes, seizures, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness.
What should I avoid while taking hydroxychloroquine?
- Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Hydroxychloroquine may cause visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing. Report any vision or hearing changes to your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.