1. What is Plaquenil?
Plaquenil (active ingredient: hydroxychloroquine) is used to treat and prevent malaria, a disease caused by parasites that enter the body through mosquito bites. However, hydroxychloroquine is not effective against all strains of malaria. Additionally, Plaquenil is also used to manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
2. How to use Plaquenil 200
Take Plaquenil 200 orally as directed by your doctor. To avoid stomach upset, take the medication with food or milk. Swallow the tablet whole, as breaking or crushing it may leave a bitter taste.
- For malaria prevention: Typically taken once a week on the same day each week. Start the medication 1–2 weeks before traveling to an area with malaria. Continue taking it weekly during your stay and for 4–8 weeks after leaving the area, or as directed by your doctor.
- For malaria treatment: Plaquenil is usually given in a high initial dose, followed by lower doses for the next two consecutive days.
- For lupus or rheumatoid arthritis: Take the medication once or twice daily, as prescribed.
- If you are also taking medications for diarrhea (e.g., kaolin) or antacids (e.g., magnesium/aluminum hydroxide), take hydroxychloroquine at least 4 hours before or after these products, as they may bind with hydroxychloroquine and reduce its absorption.
3. Precautions before using Plaquenil
High doses or long-term use of Plaquenil can cause irreversible retinal damage, potentially leading to permanent vision problems. To ensure safe use, inform your doctor if you have a history of:
- Vision changes or retinal damage from antimalarial medications
- Heart disease or arrhythmias
- Diabetes
- Stomach disorders
- Allergy to quinine
- Liver or kidney disease
- Psoriasis
- Alcohol dependence
- Porphyria (a metabolic disorder)
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
Plaquenil is not approved for treating lupus or rheumatoid arthritis in children under 18 years of age.
4. Side effects of Plaquenil
Common side effects of Plaquenil may include:
- Headache, dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
- Loss of appetite, weight loss
- Anxiety or irritability
- Skin rash or itching
- Hair loss
5. Contraindications for Plaquenil
Plaquenil 200mg should not be used by the following individuals:
- Patients allergic to any ingredient of the medication
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Patients with eye disorders
- Patients with psoriasis
- Individuals with hereditary glucose or galactose intolerance, or lactase enzyme deficiency
6. Precautions when using Plaquenil
Plaquenil can have serious effects on the heart, especially when combined with certain medications, including the antibiotic azithromycin.
Long-term use or high doses of Plaquenil can cause irreversible retinal damage. Stop using the medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty focusing, trouble reading, changes in color vision, or increased sensitivity to light.
Plaquenil 200mg is used to prevent or treat malaria caused by mosquito bites. It is also prescribed for managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. To ensure effective treatment and avoid side effects, users should seek advice from a qualified doctor or pharmacist.
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