A Hydroxychloroquine question

[Mabel1234]

Hoping I’m okay to ask another question as this forum is so helpful.

I’ve been taking Hydroxychloroquine (Quinoic) for several years successfully controlling Jessners infiltrate. I usually take 1 tab in winter months and 2 in summer months.

When I increased it this summer I seem to have had really negative reaction - intense headaches, forehead rash, fatigue and aching joints.

I’m wondering whether the increase in meds is linked? Or whether I’ve moved into a lupus diagnosis?

I’ve read the really helpful fact sheet on the different brands and hoping my GP will try me on zentiva as an alternative.

Any thoughts on this would be appreciated

[NeuronerdDoaty]

I don’t know but I certainly hope you’ll let us know what happens. I take this as well as I sometimes wonder if my symptoms are chicken or the egg. I’ll bump it up for one thing but then it all comes. I hope you find out something good. Best of luck to you!

Doaty

[Hidden]

Hi I can't take the quinoric brand as makes me feel unwell but am fine with zentiva, just ask your pharmacy for that brand instead. Mine have made a note so say only to give zentiva. Hope it helps x

[Chanpreet_Walia LUPUS UK]

Hi Mabel1234,

It is well recognised that many people with lupus experience side effects from certain brands of hydroxychloroquine because of different fillers used in the formulation. It is, as you mentioned, worth asking to try a different brand of hydroxychloroquine and see how you get on.

Hydroxychloroquine can improve joint pain due to inflammation, improve rashes and mouth ulcers. According to The Lupus Encyclopedia, "10% to 20% of people who take it (hydroxychloroquine) may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset, difficulty sleeping, or headaches, these typically are either tolerable or go away when the dose of the medicine is decreased".

To learn about the specific criteria and tests needed to make a diagnosis of lupus, read our blog article at lupusuk.org.uk/getting-diag...

Please keep us updated, wishing you all the best.