I have had severe joint pain in the past with positive RA Factors. This past year and a half the pain has been minimal and easier to deal with - I only take a Lorcet in the evening (anti-inflamitories do not help). My rheumatologist decided to get more aggressive before the disease does and put me on Plaquenil. I have taken eight doses and my joint pain seems to be much worse along with mood swings. Is this normal until my body adjusts?
7/ 6/09 8:03pm
I looked it up and as far as I can see, what you're describing are not side effects of Paquinil. However, I would recommend you contact your rheumatologist to discuss this issue. You may also want to discuss increasing your painkiller dose - unless the Lorcet is a slow release tablet, taking only one dose in 24 hours is a very low dose of painkillers and you clearly need more help. You can also talk to your rheumatologist about giving your low dose of prednisone to boost the Paquinil or bridge the gap until Paquinil really kicks in. Paquinil does take several months to work, so what you're describing could be your RA flaring, but I would recommend you contact your rheumatologist. You may need to increase your dose, try combination therapy with another medication (including prednisone) or try something else altogether.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
By jcmom— Last Modified: 12/13/10, First Published: 07/05/09
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
