What do you do if Plaquenil does not work? After several months your doctor will check your joints for swelling and see how you feel. If you still have pain with your daily activities, then you and your doctor should think about trying another medicine.

What happens if Plaquenil doesn't work for lupus?

Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is the most common antimalarial for lupus. If you can't take hydroxychloroquine, your doctor may recommend chloroquine (Aralen®). These medicines can be taken as pills or liquids.

Can hydroxychloroquine make symptoms worse?

Side effects aren't common. However, in some people hydroxychloroquine can cause: skin rashes, especially those made worse by sunlight. feeling sick (nausea) or indigestion.