Which is safer hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate?

Safety variables at 6 month were within normal physiological ranges and did not differ in groups (p>0.05) indicating that both methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine were effective and safe to use in rheumatoid arthritis. The difference in the incidence of adverse effects, total or individual, was almost nil.

How does hydroxychloroquine affect rheumatoid arthritis?

For RA and lupus, Plaquenil is prescribed as a disease-modifier, meaning that it: Decreases pain. Lessens inflammation. Prevents joint damage.

What drugs should not be taken with methotrexate?

Some specific NSAIDs that should be avoided while taking methotrexate include:

• Aspirin (Zorprin, Excedrin)
• Bromfenac (Prolensa, Bromday)
• Etodolac (Lodine)
• Fenoprofen (Nalfon)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
• Magnesium salicylate (Doan’s)
• Salsalate.

How much methotrexate should I take for rheumatoid arthritis?

For adults with RA, the starting dose of methotrexate is usually around 7.5 to 15 mg a week (three to six tablets), depending on your disease activity or presence of co-occurring diseases, with the dose increasing as needed to control RA symptoms. The maximum dose is usually 25 mg/week.

Is hydroxychloroquine good for arthritis?

Hydroxychloroquine is used in the treatment of arthritis to help relieve inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain and also to help control the symptoms of lupus erythematosus (lupus; SLE). A common brand name for hydroxychloroquine is Plaquenil®.

What happens if you take methotrexate and folic acid on the same day?

You may hear people suggest that you skip taking folic acid the same day that you take your methotrexate, but the jury is out on the benefit of doing this. “There are studies suggesting no decrease in the efficacy of MTX if taken the same day as folic acid, but the same may not be true for folinic acid.

How long do you take hydroxychloroquine for rheumatoid arthritis?

Like with many other DMARDs, you will not feel the effects of HCQ right away. Most people start noticing the effects about six to eight weeks after they start to take the medication, but full benefit may not be apparent for up to three months. It is important to be patient and continue taking your medication.