I am new to this and I was wondering...

[Willow7733]

Is it still possible to have a flare even on 400mg of Plaquenil?? My rash on my face has spread to a spot on my forehead. And my joints are very stiff in the morning, and sometimes during the day at work. I do a lot of writing, and work a lot with my hands, and I worry if it gets any worse, I won’t be able to do my job properly. For pain, I am on 500mg of Tylenol (four times a day). It helps a bit but not completely. I don’t understand what the Plaquenil is for...

[Bebe76]

Yes, it is possible to have a flare up even when taking lupus medications. Plaquenil is a brand name for hydroxychloroquine. Many people with lupus are prescribed this medication and often take it for many years. You should get regular eye exams to check for retinal toxicity. It usually takes 3 months or more for Plaquenil to start having an effect on symptoms. If you aren't getting any relief from symptoms, please speak to your rheumatologist, you may require stronger medications such as prednisone or immunosuppressants. You can read more about different treatments online:

lupusuk.org.uk/treatments/

lupuscanada.org/resources/f...

lupus.org/understanding-lup...

[lad61]

Hi I was told that Plaquenil helps to protect our organs, and helps with inflammation, and from my experience it is possible to still have flares! I have been on Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) for over 10 yrs now...I have done really well (glory to God) but I have had a few flares though not bad. During my flares I was given steroid injections, got plenty of rest, tylenol/aleve and those things really helped. Your flare sounds pretty severe so I would seek medical attention, hope this helps...blessings

[Willow7733 in reply to lad61]

Thank you! I have always been a person who has been reluctant to get medical help. I always think “it’s ok, this will pass”. I have to learn to get help when I need it and it is ok to do so. I am going to tell my GP about what is happening tomorrow when I call for my blood test result for the Warfarin I am on. Thank you for your help. It is greatly appreciated!

[Hidden]

Hi,

Sorry to hear but stress can cause a flare up of all sorts of symptoms. This is often forgotten.

As a lupus sufferer medications, dosages etc need continual review.

Very difficult under lockdown.

Even with easing now it’s difficult getting quality medical advice from a specialist.

❤️ to all.