Hydroxychloroquine: how to take it safely
Plaquenil
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and is also used to prevent and treat malaria.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water, with food.
When to take it
Take it once or twice a day, as prescribed.
Take it with
With food or milk.
What to avoid
- Taking more than prescribed.
- Antacids within 4 hours of your dose.
- Missing your eye checks.
- Tell your doctor if you have eye, heart, liver or kidney problems.
Possible side effects
Nausea, stomach upset, headache, skin rash.
Get help if
Vision changes, blurred vision or difficulty reading, palpitations, or severe low blood sugar signs: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.