How should I take Plaquenil?
Take Plaquenil exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take Plaquenil with a meal or a glass of milk unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
To treat lupus or arthritis, Plaquenil is usually taken daily.
To prevent malaria: Plaquenil is usually taken once per week on the same day each week. Start taking the medicine 2 weeks before entering an area where malaria is common. Keep taking the medicine during your stay and for at least 4 weeks after you leave the area.
To treat malaria: Plaquenil is usually given as one high dose followed by smaller doses during the next 2 days in a row.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.
Call your doctor as soon as possible if you have been exposed to malaria, or if you have fever or other symptoms of illness during or after a stay in an area where malaria is common.
Use protective clothing, insect repellents, and mosquito netting around your bed to further prevent mosquito bites that could cause malaria.
No medication is 100% effective in treating or preventing all types of malaria. Talk with your doctor if you have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea during your treatment.
While using Plaquenil, you may need frequent medical tests and vision exams.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
