Had to come off plaquenil 10 days ago due to terrible itching and a fetching little rash which wouldn't win me any beauty contests. Tried anti-histamines which only worked for a short while and then gave in as I was driving everyone mad scratching all the time and i got horrible pus filled spots and a couple of weals on my face- rheumy nurse said to stop taking.
Absolutely gutted as it was working like a dream after only three weeks and is still working even after I've come off it. What I wondered is if anyone else had the same problem and managed to get round the side effects in some way? Here's hoping!!
Polly x
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Pollywollydoodle
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I had exactly the same problem with Sulphasalazine Polly - only lasted 3 weeks but it did really work so by the end of the 3 weeks it had made the joint swelling go down and I could walk again without hobbling. It seemed to stay in my system for a few weeks and then I had an injection of Kenalog which took me through a further 6 weeks. Have you tried MTX yet? I imagine that you have if you're saying another drug bites the dust. Some have tried Arava and had a lot of luck with it. I don't think you should assume that because one drug gives you the itches another will because I've been fine on MTX. Good luck. TTx
Thanks for your reply- I have tried methotrexate first but my liver didn't like it and it had no effect at all so they took me off that as well ! Never mind, i'm waiting a bit before trying anything else as I still feel quite well after the plaquenil. Hope things go well for you.
Maybe sulfasalazine or Lefuminade next then? Really hope you find something that works for you soon. Fortunately there are quite a few options for you.
Sorry not answered as I've been in Scotland looking after my dad who was in hospital. Just starting to get the aches and pains back now as the plaquenil is wearing off and I'd so quickly got used to getting up feeling well and having energy!! Roll on new drugs. Hope everyone else has a good weekend.
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What next
The next step in my drug journey?
What next.
and the new drug is...................
What next i ask myself.................
