Plaquenil
Formulated to alleviate symptoms of autoimmune conditions, intended to support joint health and relieve inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
- Categories
- Antiparasitics · Autoimmune Support
- Active ingredient
- Hydroxychloroquine
- Supply
- Rx
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Film-coated tablet
- Strengths
- 200 · 400mg
Plaquenil details
- Conditions
- Rheumatoid Arthritis · Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- Therapeutic class
- Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug (DMARD)
- Pharmacological class
- 4-Aminoquinoline
- Contraindications
- retinal damage; hypersensitivity to 4-aminoquinoline derivatives
- Precautions and warnings
- regular eye exams required for long-term use; may affect blood glucose
- Minor side effects
- nausea; abdominal discomfort
- Moderate side effects
- skin rash; headache
- Dosage forms
- Film-coated tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Prescription only (specially controlled medicine)
- Manufacturer
- Sanofi
- Onset Time
- 4–12 weeks
- Duration
- long term
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C in a dry place.
- Drug interactions
- digoxin; ciclosporin
- Age restrictions
- Adults.
Serious side effects
retinopathy, requires immediate medical attention; cardiomyopathy, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Formulated to alleviate symptoms of autoimmune conditions, intended to support joint health and relieve inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Mechanism of action
Hydroxychloroquine acts as an immunomodulator. It reduces the body's inflammatory response by interfering with antigen processing and lysosomal activity within cells, which helps lower the severity of autoimmune flare-ups and provides a protective effect in chronic disease management.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: benefits should outweigh risks, discuss with specialist. Breastfeeding: pass into milk, use with caution.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Plaquenil
Plaquenil is a globally recognised brand of hydroxychloroquine, used for the management of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Manufactured by Sanofi, the product is supplied as a tablet in 200mg and 400mg strengths. Patients and clinicians rely on this formulation for its consistent role in the long-term management of these inflammatory conditions.
Plaquenil availability in Asia
Plaquenil is registered across 14 markets, including Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand, with availability also in Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. Generic hydroxychloroquine, much of it made in India, is far more affordable than the original brand, providing an accessible option for expats and residents living far from major urban centres. This medication is best used under a doctor’s regular care and supervision.