| Brand Name: |
Plaquenil |
| Generic Name: |
Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Sanofi-Aventis |
What is Plaquenil?
Plaquenil with the active ingredient hydroxychloroquine sulfate is considered an antimalarial type of medication. It is used to prevent or treat malaria infections caused by mosquito bites. It will not work against certain types of chloroquine-resistant types of malaria. The drug can also be used with other types of medications to treat certain auto-immune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and discoid or systemic lupus erythematosus when other medications have not improved the condition.
How is Plaquenil used?
Plaquenil should only be taken as directed by your doctor. For prevention of malaria, 2 tablets are usually taken once a week on the same day each week, starting 1 to 2 weeks before traveling to an area where malaria is common and should be continued for 8 weeks after exposure. For treating malaria, 4 tablets are taken immediately followed by 2 tables 6 to 8 hours later and then 2 tablets on each of the next 2 days. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage as it will depend on the patient’s condition being treated and their reaction of the medication.
Adverse effects
Plaquenil may cause unwanted side effects in patients such as:
- Headaches
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Blurred vision
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Hiar loss
- Irregular heartbeat
Warnings
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Plaquenil is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
