How does hydroxychloroquine work?
Hydroxychloroquine is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD).
It works by calming your immune system. This helps reduce swelling (inflammation) in people with autoimmune conditions, where your immune system attacks your own body.
For example, it helps reduce the inflammation that causes swollen and stiff joints in rheumatoid arthritis.
Hydroxychloroquine is not a painkiller. But because it reduces the inflammation caused by the condition, you may notice that you have less pain as your symptoms improve.
How long does it take to work?
Hydroxychloroquine starts to work gradually.
For inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, it can take 6 to 12 weeks before you notice any benefits.
It's important to keep taking hydroxychloroquine. You may not feel any different at first, but it is likely to be working.
If you have been taking this medicine for rheumatoid arthritis for a long time (more than 6 months) and you do not feel that it's helping you, speak to your doctor or specialist. Your treatment may need to be reviewed.
Important
Keep taking hydroxychloroquine until your doctor tells you to stop. Do not stop taking it just because you feel better. If you stop, your symptoms may get worse again.
Are there any long-term side effects?
You can take hydroxychloroquine for a long time if it's working for you, but your doctor will monitor you while you're taking it.
For example you may have regular full blood counts (tests to check the types and numbers of cells in your blood) and eye examinations.
If you take this medicine for a long time, your doctor will occasionally check your muscles and tendons to make sure they are working properly.
Speak to your doctor if you're worried about taking hydroxychloroquine long term.
Are there other treatments for inflammatory conditions?
There are several different treatments that can help the symptoms of inflammatory conditions. These include medicines, other types of therapy and even surgery.
Other treatments for rheumatoid arthritis include:
- immunosuppressants such as methotrexate, biological medicines such as adalimumab, and steroids
- painkillers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- supportive treatments, including physiotherapy
- surgery, including joint replacement
Other treatments for lupus include:
- painkillers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- steroids
- immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and methotrexate
- biological medicines such as belimumab
Other treatments for skin problems where your skin is sensitive to light include:
- creams and ointments that you put on your skin
- steroids
- immunosuppressants such as methotrexate and azathioprine
Your doctor will be able to recommend the best treatment for you.
Do I need to be careful of infections?
Hydroxychloroquine is not considered an immunosuppressant but it may lower the number of white cells in your blood. This can make you more likely to get an infection.
It's important to reduce your risk of getting an infection. When possible, avoid close contact with people who you know are unwell.
Tell your doctor if you start to feel unwell, for example if you're getting a sore throat or if you have a high temperature.
Will it affect my contraception?
Hydroxychloroquine does not stop any type of contraception from working, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill and emergency contraception.
However, if hydroxychloroquine makes you vomit, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
Find out more:
Can I drive or ride a bike?
It's usually safe to drive or ride a bike when taking hydroxychloroquine. But hydroxychloroquine can sometimes make you feel dizzy or affect your eyesight. If this happens to you, do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery until you feel better.
It's an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It's your responsibility to decide if it's safe to drive. If you're in any doubt, do not drive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's safe for you to drive while taking hydroxychloroquine. GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.
Can I drink alcohol while taking hydroxychloroquine?
Yes, you can drink alcohol with hydroxychloroquine.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking hydroxychloroquine.