Is Plaquenil not recommended for women who are pregnant or who wish to become pregnant?

Question

I am taking plaquenil 200mg twice a day, it was prescribed for 2 years to treat arthritis without markers. Thank you very much for your response Out of curiosity, I am wondering why find an alternative if the scientific sources/studies indicate that the drug is safe during pregnancy? Are there any sources that indicate otherwise? please note: my rheumatologist is out of town until August 2022 and I do not have a family doctor, Thanks again!

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello, thank you for your question! Some sources indicate that this medication could be used during pregnancy. However, you will need to talk to your rheumatologist first to evaluate the possibility of considering alternatives, if any. Be aware that the length of time the medication remains in the body even after it is stopped is very long (more than 6 months). I hope this has been helpful to you and if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me Tom Samaha, pharmacist This will depend on your doctor's preferences and clinical experience, and on discussions between you and your doctor. The practice guidelines do not take precedence over your doctor's judgment. It is not recommended that you stop the medication if it is working while you wait for your follow-up appointment Alternatives are not necessarily other medications, it can also be a cessation or a decrease in dose, but this will be determined between you and your rheumatologist Having said that, if you would like an evaluation before he/she returns from vacation, it would be appropriate to call his/her office to see if a colleague can take over in the meantime. Sincerely Tom Samaha, pharmacist