Does Prolonged Plaquenil Intake Cause Sore Muscles And Fatigue?

Posted on Wed, 26 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 26 Nov 2014 Answered on

Mon, 22 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello! I am female & 35 years of age. I have been on 400mg of plaquenil for 7 years for arthritis.
For the last 6 months I have felt very "toxic", tired all the time with very sore muscles.
Could these symptoms be a side effect of the drug?
Trouble is - every time I have tried to go off it (4 times in total) I have ended up not being able to get out of bed!
Would appreciate it if you could give me some advice.

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Yes,these are common side effect

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for posting
I have gone through your query and understand your concern.You may switch on to other safe drugs given for arthritis like methtrexate, sulfsalazine and lefulonamide after discussion with your doctor.
The plaquinil should be stopped because of side effect.
Hope this helps and I shall be glad to answer any further query.
Take care

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar