Date: 23.02.2010
From: KayJay
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Subject: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Hi all been on for a while but just got the diagnosis today after attending the Rhuematology Dept for about 18 months. They gave me Plaquenil but the doc says it will take a long time to take effect and it may not suit so they may have to keep trying different ones. I can't have Steroid because I'm diabetic so I'm hoping this won't complicate things.
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Date: 24.02.2010
From: valh
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
hi yes and did feel bit better in my self with in the week which did not expect have inflimation a ? been on it 2 months and inflimation gone from blood joints much better and do not feel so exhausted any more still got oa but feel so much better good luck hope they as good for you
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Date: 24.02.2010
From: KayJay
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Thanx valh - will see if they do they same for me ;0)
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Date: 24.02.2010
From: valh:-)
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
hope they do makes so much different con. had sent name of different tabs could try if they were not working but happy with these have you had eyes tested? had to get mine done
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Date: 24.02.2010
From: KayJay
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
I asked the Consultant Rhumie about this but he said it's very rare for the eyes to be affected ? Shall ask my GP though as I'm Diabetic anyway and that alone can affect the retina's. I Have to have them checked every year on a regular basis.
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Date: 03.03.2010
From: Paul
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
You should have an eye test before starting Plaquenil and then another test every 3 years. Its amazing how many people do not get tested, do insist for it (its mentioned on the document you get with the drug) I had a massive problem with itching (really bad) for months which has now stopped when i stopped taking Plaquenil. I took Plaquenil for 6 years.
My neighbour also has the itching and takes this drug also.
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Date: 03.03.2010
From: bryan Mcshane
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
hi kayjay, i got diagnosed with RA last week after 5 months of tests, they have started me on plaquenil too. they did insist on a eye test and regular tests whilst i am on it. I dont feel any benefit on it yet but like you they did say it would take several weeks before i would feel any benefit. I hope it works for you and will keep you updated on any changes.
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Date: 03.03.2010
From: Paul
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Plaquenil won't really help that much and you really should be on another drug such as methotrexate at the same time or if your lucky anti-tnf.
Plaquenil will not stop the RA from destroying your joints. I know first hand as i had to stop taking most drugs whilst trying to have a child but stayed on Plaquenil and painkillers, i now have a deformed hand and feet and my spine is damaged and also my jaw.. i just turned 40 and walk like an old man. Finally got my sperm frozen to get me back on the correct medication.
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Date: 03.03.2010
From: Lynn B
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Hi KayJay I was told I may be changing my meds from methotrexate as its not working for me, and they want me to go on Plaquenil,Sulphasalazine and Leflunomide, they are good together but not very good on there own I am wondering why they only gave you plaquenil. Have you been on methotrexate?
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Date: 03.03.2010
From: KayJay
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Hi all thanx for your comments. Lynn B - no other meds just Plaquenil. Maybe because I'm Diabetic ?? Go back next week to see Rhumie nurse so I'll ask her about all your comments - especially the eyes thingy. The only downer I've found is that I've got to go to the toilet more than usual or as we say up here they have given me the "trots". Paul sorry to read your post I must say I'm not very confident now about this med. Hope you can manage to get some help with your other meds.
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Date: 04.03.2010
From: paul
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Hi KayJay, Wishing you luck and please do ask why only Plaquenil? Here is a link about the drug and its side effects (check the warning part, i'll copy that below for those you have trouble with this link): http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100002089.html Warning!
You should have an eye test before starting treatment with this medicine and at least every 12 months while you are taking this medicine. If you notice any changes in your vision during treatment, for such as blurred vision, decreased vision or changes in your colour vision, you should stop taking this medicine and tell your doctor immediately so that your eyes can be checked. This medicine should be discontinued if any visual problems develop.
This medication may cause a blurring of vision. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.
This medicine may rarely cause a decrease in the normal amounts of blood cells in the blood. For this reason you should have regular blood tests to check your blood cells. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: unexplained bruising or bleeding, purple spots, sore throat, mouth ulcers, high temperature (fever), feeling tired or general illness. Your doctor may want to take a blood test to check your blood cells.
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Date: 04.03.2010
From: Louise
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
I was initially given plaquenil, then had other meds added in as it became clear it was not enough on its own. I think that alot of rheumies like to start with the least toxic of the dmards and move on to others as is needed. I think that this is sensible as no-one really wants to take potentially toxic meds unless the arthritis is proving to be not well controlled. I have annual eye tests whilst on plaquenil and regular blood tests. Hope this helps.
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Date: 04.03.2010
From: KayJay
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Hey thanx guys for your advise. I shall defo be grilling the Rhumie Nurse next week. I'll have to make a list and tick them off one by one !!
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Date: 04.03.2010
From: Paul
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
its a pleasure :-) Good luck and keep us informed how you get on. regards Paul
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Date: 04.03.2010
From: KayJay
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Subject: Re: Just Got Diagnosed With RA - Anyone Taking Plaquenil ??
Sure will Paul thanx ;0)
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