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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Anxiety from Hydroxychloroquine

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Freeport, FL

I recently increased my dose of HCQ from 200mg once a day to twice a day. RA symptoms feeling better but I feel so emotional. I'm getting irritated quickly, feeling very anxious and kinda sad. I was put on Paxil 3 years ago after getting diagnosed with RA because I was a nervous wreck. I stopped it almost 2 months ago and was feeling great until I increased the HCQ. I originally took the HCQ twice a day but 6 months ago had surgery and had to space out medications and I kept skipping the… read more

October 6, 2025
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A myRAteam Member

Hi! I'm not taking any opioids. I upped the HCQ but also stopped taking Paxil 6 weeks ago. Anxiety has been slowly ramping up so I started Paxil again yesterday.

October 8, 2025
A myRAteam Member

No I haven’t

October 7, 2025
myRAteam

When changing doses of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), it's important to monitor any new side effects. Side effects can vary between different forms of the medication (generic vs brand name) and with dosage changes. The emotional changes and heat flashes you're experiencing should be reported to your doctor right away.

Never Show Full Answer

When changing doses of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), it's important to monitor any new side effects. Side effects can vary between different forms of the medication (generic vs brand name) and with dosage changes. The emotional changes and heat flashes you're experiencing should be reported to your doctor right away.

Never make medication changes without consulting your healthcare provider - this includes both stopping medications or adjusting doses on your own. Your doctor needs to know about these side effects to properly evaluate if this is a temporary adjustment or if modifications to your treatment plan are needed. While it's understandable to want to minimize medication use, skipping doses can lead to increased inflammation and disease flares. If you're struggling with your current medication regimen, work with your rheumatologist to find a plan that better suits your needs while still effectively managing your RA symptoms.

October 6, 2025

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