plaquenil things you should know

Uses of Plaquenil:
It is used to treat or prevent malaria.
It is used to treat lupus.
It is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

If you have an allergy to hydroxychloroquine or any other part of Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine).
If you are allergic to any drugs like this one, any other drugs, foods, or other substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had, like rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other signs.
If you have had any eye changes or changes in eyesight due to this medicine or drugs like this one.
If you have psoriasis.
If you have porphyria.
If you are taking any drugs that can cause a certain type of heartbeat that is not normal (prolonged QT interval). There are many drugs that can do this. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

For all uses of Plaquenil:

Tell all of your health care providers that you take this medicine. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
Use care when driving or doing other tasks that call for clear eyesight.
Have an eye exam as you have been told by your doctor.
Have your blood work checked if you are on Plaquenil for a long time. Talk with your doctor.
Be careful if you have G6PD deficiency. Anemia may happen.
This medicine may affect how much of some other drugs are in your body. If you are taking other drugs, talk with your doctor. You may need to have your blood work checked more closely while taking this medicine with your other drugs.
You may get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen and wear clothing and eyewear that protects you from the sun.
Low blood sugar has happened with Plaquenil. Sometimes, this has been very bad and could be life-threatening. Talk with the doctor.
Talk with your doctor before you drink alcohol.
Keep away from children. Accidental exposure may cause death. If a child takes this medicine by accident, get medical help right away.
Use with care in children. Talk with the doctor.
If you are 65 or older, use Plaquenil with care. You could have more side effects.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using this medicine while you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.