Why Did My Doctor Prescribe an Antimalarial Drug for Lupus?
Antimalarial drugs, namely hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, have been prescribed for lupus for quite some time. While it does seem odd to use a drug that would normally treat malaria to treat lupus, for many lupus patients, antimalarial drugs have been effective in helping with some symptoms. Antimalarial drugs for lupus are used to reduce inflammation associated with this condition.
Why Is It Used?
The skin rash that is characteristic of lupus may be controlled by antimalarial drugs. The symptoms not controlled by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as fatigue, fever and joint and muscle pain may benefit from antimalarial drugs. These drugs may be used in combination with corticosteroids or anti-inflammatory drugs.
How Well Does It Work?
This type of drug is often used in combination with a corticosteroid cream to help in controlling the skin rash common of lupus. It is also often used to treat the joint pain associated with lupus. If you experience the skin rash with lupus, you should also strive to protect your skin from sunlight as much as possible for the best results.
While it can take a few months, hydroxychloroquine seems to help in reducing the symptoms of generally not feeling well (malaise) and fatigue. This drug may also help in protecting you against lupus flares.
Possible Side Effects
The majority of people who take antimalarial drugs for lupus will not experience major side effects. The more infrequent side effects may include itching and rash, vomiting, abdominal cramps, dizziness, nausea and diarrhea. If any of these side effects are very bothersome for you, call your doctor. If any of these side effects get worse instead of starting to go away as the days pass, call your doctor. If you experience any vision problems, call your doctor immediately.
Other ConsiderationsIt can take several months before you notice any effects from antimalarial drugs for lupus. If you do not notice these drugs helping within about a six month period, your doctor will likely decide to stop prescribing the drugs because they probably will not be beneficial for you. Also, if you have liver or kidney disease, your antimalarial drug dose may be adjusted. You will also likely have to have regular eye exams. These exams are generally done every six to 12 months because while rare, there is the risk that this type of drug could cause retina damage.
Resources
Published by R. Elizabeth C. Kitchen - Featured Contributor in Health & Wellness
Rose is a freelance medical writer with a background in health care. She has been a freelance medical writer for five years. Rose is also an editor and writes on a variety of other subjects, such as sports... View profile
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