Yes! Hydroxychloroquine (sold under the brand name Plaquenil) is indeed a conventional DMARD used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It's taken orally as a pill and is generally considered one of the milder options in the DMARD family, yet still effective for managing RA. As a conventional DMARD, it works by dampening the Show Full Answer
Yes! Hydroxychloroquine (sold under the brand name Plaquenil) is indeed a conventional DMARD used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It's taken orally as a pill and is generally considered one of the milder options in the DMARD family, yet still effective for managing RA. As a conventional DMARD, it works by dampening the immune system as a whole, which helps to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Slow disease progression
- Help prevent long-term joint damage
Like all DMARDs, it's worth knowing that it doesn't work overnight — it can take one to three months before you start feeling its full effects.
It's also important to be aware of potential side effects, which can include gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and an increased risk of infection. Regular check-ins with your doctor and blood tests are recommended while taking any conventional DMARD, including hydroxychloroquine.
July 17