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Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) is an antiviral medication that belongs to the antimalarial drug class and is approved for the treatment of certain autoimmune conditions and, in some regions, for specific viral infections. It is manufactured as a plain oral pill and carries approvals from the FDA, EMA, and South Africa’s Medicines Control Council (MCC).

What is Plaquenil?

Plaquenil is the brand name for hydroxychloroquine, a synthetic derivative of Chloroquine. It is primarily used to manage systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and, where indicated, certain viral illnesses. The medication is supplied in tablet form (200 mg or 400 mg).

Who Should Use Plaquenil?

• Adults diagnosed with SLE or RA who require disease-modifying therapy.
• Patients for whom an antiviral indication has been approved by local authorities.
• Individuals without a history of severe cardiac arrhythmias or retinopathy.

How Does It Work?

Plaquenil interferes with the parasite’s and virus’s ability to escape the acidic environment of cellular organelles, thereby reducing inflammation and inhibiting viral replication. Think of it as a “traffic controller” that slows down the harmful signals that cause joint damage or viral spread, allowing the body’s normal processes to function more smoothly.

Why Choose Plaquenil?

Choosing Plaquenil provides proven clinical efficacy, an extensive safety record, and affordability compared with many newer antivirals. While generic hydroxychloroquine is widely available, the branded product offers consistent quality and batch-to-batch reliability, which can be important for long-term disease management.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• 200 mg tablets: 200 mg twice daily (total 400 mg per day).
• 400 mg tablets: 400 mg once daily (if prescribed).

Dosage may be adjusted by a healthcare professional based on disease activity, renal function, and tolerance.

How to Take

1. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
2. Take the dose with food to minimize stomach upset.
3. Keep a regular schedule (e.g., morning and evening) to maintain steady blood levels.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose and it is less than 12 hours until the next scheduled dose, skip the missed tablet and continue as planned. Do not double-dose.

Overdose

In case of suspected overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately. Contact the South African Poisons Information Service (SIPAS) at 080 787 787 and inform them that hydroxychloroquine was taken.

Special Populations

• Elderly: Start at the lower end of the dosing range; monitor cardiac function.
• Renal impairment: Dose reduction may be required; follow professional guidance.
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Generally considered safe, but discuss risks and benefits with a qualified practitioner.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid excess sunlight; hydroxychloroquine can increase photosensitivity.
• Limit grapefruit as it may affect drug metabolism.
• Maintain adequate hydration to help prevent kidney stress.

Precautions and Warnings

• Retinal toxicity: Baseline eye examination is recommended, followed by annual reviews after five years of use.
• Cardiac effects: Monitor for QT-interval prolongation, especially when combined with other QT-prolonging agents.
• Hypoglycaemia: Patients with Diabetes should monitor blood sugar closely.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash or itching

Less Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Mild hair loss

Serious Side Effects

• Vision changes (blurred vision, colour distortion) - stop the medication and seek ophthalmologic evaluation.
• Cardiac palpitations or irregular heartbeat - consult a healthcare professional immediately.
• Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) - medical emergency; discontinue use.

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Known hypersensitivity to hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine.
• Pre-existing retinopathy or maculopathy.
• Uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmias or prolonged QT interval.
• Severe liver disease without medical supervision.

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (15-30 °C), away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the tablets in the original container, tightly closed.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Plaquenil Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can I expect symptom improvement?

Most patients notice a reduction in joint Pain and Fatigue within 2-4 weeks, but full therapeutic effect may take 3-6 months of consistent use.

Can I take Plaquenil with alcohol?

Occasional moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe, but excessive drinking can increase liver stress and worsen side effects.

Do I need regular blood tests?

Yes. Baseline and periodic complete blood counts are recommended to monitor for rare blood dyscrasias.

Is it safe to travel while on Plaquenil?

Travel is permitted, but ensure you have a sufficient supply, carry a copy of your medication record, and stay protected from intense sunlight.

What should I do if I develop a rash?

Stop the medication and contact a healthcare professional. A rash may signal an allergic reaction requiring medical assessment.

Can Plaquenil affect my blood sugar?

It can enhance the effect of antidiabetic drugs, potentially causing low blood sugar. Monitor glucose levels closely.

Is it okay to take Plaquenil during pregnancy?

Hydroxychloroquine is classified as Category C in South Africa and is generally considered safe, but a risk-benefit discussion with a qualified practitioner is essential.

How often should I have eye examinations?

A baseline eye exam is required, followed by annual retinal screening after five years of therapy or sooner if symptoms appear.

Glossary

• Antiviral: A drug that interferes with the replication of viruses.
• Retinopathy: Damage to the retina, which can impair vision.
• QT interval: A measurement on an ECG that reflects the time the heart’s electrical system takes to recharge; prolongation can lead to dangerous arrhythmias.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Off-label uses of Plaquenil should only be considered after discussion with a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are responsible for verifying suitability and safety for their individual circumstances. Our platform offers a convenient way to purchase approved medicines in South Africa, but all medication decisions must be made in consultation with a qualified practitioner.