Originator: Steph Mole CNSDate: November 2010

Version: 2Date for Review: November 2013DGOH Ref No: DGOH/PIL/00216

Hydroxychloroquine RheumatologyPatient Information Leaflet

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Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine is in a family of drugs called Disease modifyinganti-rheumatic drugs DMARDS.

Whilst your specialist will choose the one he feels best to treat youat the time based on research and extensive knowledge of the drugyou will always have the choice to discuss other treatment optionsand alternative therapies.

What is hydroxychloroquine?

Hydroxychloroquine is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and someother conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus. It helps toslow down the progression of the arthritis. It is in the same family ofdrugs that are used to treat malaria.

How should I take hydroxychloroquine?

Take hydroxychloroquine with or just after a meal. They are usuallytaken once or twice a day for five days of the week.

It is easiest to remember this by taking them on weekdays andleaving them off on Saturday and Sunday. This helps to reduce therisks of side effects. Take only the dose that has been prescribedfor you.

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How long will it take for thehydroxychloroquine to work?

It can take up to three months before you feel the full benefit of thetreatment. You will be given you first prescription from the hospital.Further prescriptions should be obtained from your GP.

Will I have any side effects?

Most people have no side effects. Some patients feel nauseated(feel sick) or get diarrhoea or indigestion or occasionallyheadaches.

Rarely hydroxychloroquine can affect the retina (part of the eye),affecting your ability to see small print clearly. Another rare sideeffect of hydroxychloroquine is tinnitus (ringing in the ears) if youhave any of these side effects you should consult your doctor orcall the Rheumatology Helpline.

Do I need any special tests while onhydroxychloroquine?

You do not need to have special blood tests to monitor for sideeffects but we will usually do a blood test when you come for yourhospital appointment to check whether your arthritis is active. Bloodtests should be done at Russell Hall or Corbett Hospital.

Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust Tel: 01384 456111 (switchboard) http://www.dgoh.nhs.uk/

The Rheumatology Department Tel: 01384 244789 (Helpline)http://www.dgoh.nhs.uk/_public/_servportals/rheumatology/_public/_servportals/rheumatology/default.asp

You will be asked to read off a special card to check your visiononce a year. If you notice any changes in your eyesight it is best tovisit your optician for a check up.

Can I take my other medication withhydroxychloroquine?

Hydroxychloroquine is not a painkiller so you may need to continuewith your usual painkillers if necessary. If you get indigestion, youcan take antacids (indigestion remedies) but try to leave four hoursbetween taking the remedy and the hydroxychloroquine.

Tell any doctor who is prescribing for you, or the pharmacist if youare buying over the counter medicines, that you takehydroxychloroquine.

Can I drink alcohol while onhydroxychloroquine?

You can drink alcohol within reason. We recommend that you staywithin government guidelines

Does hydroxychloroquine affect pregnancy?

It is best not to take hydroxychloroquine during pregnancy orbreast-feeding. If you are planning a pregnancy or find that you arepregnant discuss this with your doctor.

Other treatments

You always have the choice when taking any medicationprescribed in Rheumatology. There are "alternative treatments"that some people find useful and leaflets provided by ArthritisResearch Council are available in our clinics.

Over the counter medications may be used alone or in combinationwith prescribed medication you are taking however, you are alwaysadvised to discuss with your doctor who has prescribed beforetaking. Medication bought over the counter may help to control yourpain but not always the condition.

Contact numbers

If you have any problems or questions, contact the RheumatologyHelpline on 01384 244789 or contact your pharmacist.

Patient and Professional Organisations with Useful Links

Arthritis Care Tel 0808 800 4050Arthritis Care: Welcome to Arthritis Carehttp://www.arthritiscare.org.uk

NHS DirectTel: 0845 4647http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/

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