Lupus Forum - Side effect of Plaquenil for UCTD : Am I allergic w/ skin ra

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Q: Side effect of Plaquenil for UCTD : Am I allergic w/ skin ra

asked by: DoctorQuestion on May 18th, 2007

I have a large amount of joint pain which is my only real serious symptom. I started taking the Plaq on 03/20/07 and was feeling great I thought I was cured. Stopped taking the diclofenac and everything. Then two weeks ago I started to ITCH insane amounts I would wake up bleeding from scratching in my sleep. I stopped taking the Plaq and am not as itchy but still have some. Does this mean I am allergic to the Plaq? I hope no I was feeling so much better on it. I work with a woman who takes it and she said she was itchy at the onset of taking it as well but it went away as her body adjusted to the med. Please advsie your thoughts.

Thanks

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on May 29th, 2007

Lupus Answer A2796

Plaquentil (hydroxychloroquine) is an antimalarial drug also used to reduce inflammation experienced during many rheumatic diseases including Undefined Connective Tissue Disorder (UCTD). The itching you mention could be a side effect of the Plaquentil. Itching without a skin rash is probably not an allergic reaction to Plaquentil but it is still a side effect. Not all side effects from drugs are due to allergy. If the itching is intolerable, you can request another drug for treating UCTD such as non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID); corticosteroids, and immunosuppressant drugs. Consult your rheumatologist first for advice, supervision, and help.

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