Originally yes, eventually they added methotrexate too. I now take both and have for a long time. With the plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine), you have to have special eye tests done a couple times a year to test for toxicity. I've been on it for years and it helps in controlling the ra.

Hi! I have been on hydroxychloroquine for over 20 years. I have to have my eyes checked annually to check for changes. There have been no changes due to the med, but Dr. saw that I have drusins, so I'm taking Preservision to save me from macular degeneration [not caused by the hydroxychloroquine!!]. If I didn't see the eye Dr. annually, I wouldn't have known about this serious condition. I'm also on methotrexate, which necessitates blood tests every 3 months to check liver enzymes. Also on sulfasalazine, which my rheumy feels is still helping. He is saying it's too late for me to take a biologic since my finger joints have eroded and are drifting to the sides and bent. Going to get a second opinion. Don't like what's happening to this body!!

Yes but messed up my kidneys so was taken off it.

I just started taking plaguenil about 2 weeks ago and it does seem to be working.