Plaquenil

[Hellokitty1973]

I just started on Plaquenil about 2 weeks ago. The doctor said it would take 8-12 weeks to kick in.

Has anyone been on this and had good results? I'm only on this and Celebrex right now... I am hoping the Plaquenil will kick in where Celebrex is not.

Thanks!!!

[Mattsmummum]

I was on Plaquenil for about 4 years. I had great results, but it took almost 8 months before it kicked in. I was on Voltaren and Prednisone until then. Once the Plaquenil took effect, I was taken off all other medications and now for the past 5 years have been totally medication free. My rheumatologist felt that Plaquenil had the least side effects, but I did have to get the retinas on my eyes checked every 6 months. Good luck.

[ostiopain]

8 months???? I am on 5 mg prednisone down from 10, have mental probs on prednisone so keep it low. Started Arava which worked wonders then failed, now on Arava, prednisone and started Vioxx. I am to choose another for the RA choices being - Plaquinal, or Remicide. I was leaning towards Plauquinal. I am on Fosamax also with good results so far. I am continuously flareing...

[Mattsmummum]

Since I've been off medication now for over 5 years, none of these newer drugs were introduced to me. After the initial 8 months for the plaquenil, I was totally pain free while on the drug. Not every drug is for every person and my rheumy said that it was a trial and error procedure to see what works. I think if I started to show symptoms again, I would ask for the plaquenil...of course he might have newer ideas by now, but knowing how well this worked for me, I would rather give it another chance if I needed something.

[MegHurts]

Just curious.... you mentioned that you would go back on the Plaquenil if you needed it again. If it takes several weeks (8-12) before kicking in, wouldnt it beneficial to stay on it long term to reduce the chance of flare ups? Im new on Plaquenil, thats why I ask.

Meg