Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
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.

Anyone switched to Hydroxychloroquine - from Methotrexate?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Los Angeles, CA

The Methoterxate 2.5 Mg that I was taking for a couple years, eventually became so toxic to my body that I had open sores in my nose and mouth. We immediately stopped that drug. I actually didn't take anything for the past 10 months, other than celebrex for pain and the occasional steroid for flare ups. Basically I white-knuckled it. But it is time to take a new path of medication and I would love some practical insight into Hydroxychloroquine. I will start taking it tomorrow 300Mg daily. THANK… read more

July 15
 · 
Reactions
myRAteam

First off, kudos for pushing through those 10 months — that takes real strength! It's great that you and your doctor have found a new path forward with hydroxychloroquine (also known as Plaquenil).

Here are some practical things to know as you get started:

- It takes time to work — hydroxychloroquine can take weeks to Show Full Answer

First off, kudos for pushing through those 10 months — that takes real strength! It's great that you and your doctor have found a new path forward with hydroxychloroquine (also known as Plaquenil).

Here are some practical things to know as you get started:

- It takes time to work — hydroxychloroquine can take weeks to months before you notice a real difference in your RA symptoms, so patience is key
- Take it with food — this can help reduce any stomach upset
- Eye checkups matter — regular eye exams are recommended, as long-term use can rarely affect vision
- Stay consistent — taking it at the same time each day helps maintain steady levels in your body There are also some drug interactions worth being aware of. Since you've been taking Celebrex (an NSAID) for pain, it's worth noting that the NSAID diclofenac specifically may increase liver-related risks when combined with hydroxychloroquine. Always keep your doctor informed of everything you're taking.

Corticosteroids (those occasional steroids for flares) combined with hydroxychloroquine are generally safe for most people, though your doctor will monitor for any rare concerns.

Wishing you a smooth start on this new chapter! 🌟

July 15
A myRAteam Member

Yes- initially I think we’re all put on Methotrexate as the first DMARD of Rheumatologist choice…
I was no different but after 2 infections in 6 months was taken off and started hydroxychloroquine- I was doing so well for 3 good years until I wasn’t- been in a flare since February and doc has now added Leflunomide 20mg, been on it 1 month so far no relief-
It’s all so discouraging- trying to stay positive when your body is in chronic pain all day every day -

July 21
A myRAteam Member

Wow. Your response perfectly illustrates how fluid treatments are. We'll see how this works and I agree- Celebrex does nothing for pain!

July 16
A myRAteam Member

Very interesting. I am sorry to hear how you reacted to methotrexate. I was on it for at least 40 years before I took myself off it. No reactions, but I knew it was a toxic drug. I had also been on hydroxychloroquine until one Dr. took me off it, but then when she died and I went through a couple of new ones the last one put me on it again and she said it was to help protect against getting covid. Basically, the medicine never did anything for me. I went through a number of biologics, the most effective one being Remicade, but sadly after five good years, I took a reaction to it. I am currently on Xeljanz, which had worked fine for at least 15 years, but I had a serious flare a couple of months ago and had to go on prednisone with all its side effects. I was on Celebrex, but it was doing nothing to stop the swelling so trying another drug Naproxen. So, I am currently trying to find a drug that will get the swelling down so I can reduce or get off the prednisone. I got RA at age six and was quite used to the drug merry go round trying to find something that will work (or stay working). My ophthalmologist says they really do not require constant eye monitoring for Plaquenil, but he closely monitors my eyes anyway as RA can affect the eyes as well as looking for glaucoma. Have you tried any of the biologics? They can be very effective. If its affordability or whatever your insurance allows, some drug companies will give it to you at a very reduced rate. I wish you all the best finding your happy place in the world of medicine.

July 16
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >
A myRAteam Member

I had similar mouth sores, even into my throat. I would never recommend methotrexate or hydroxy chloroquine but we generally have to be prescribed these drugs until hopefully finally getting a biologic someday. All the best to you 😊

July 15

Related Questions

View All
How To Manage Mouth Sores From Methotrexate
Methotrexate Withdrawal Symptoms and Managing RA Flares After Stopping
Methotrexate Injections vs. Pills for RA: What To Know