plaquenil PLEASE READ!!!!

tnatemark · Newbie Alert Joined: 22 Aug 2008 Posts: 1 Location: NY

Saysusie,
I am interested in your knowledge of Plaquenil while breastfeeding. I have a 4 month old, and was just prescribed Plaquenil even though my diagnosis is yet undetermined. Most reumatologists are leaning toward RA, though all originally suspected lupus due to my severe sun sensitivity. Anyway, my immediate problem is how to weigh the risk of delaying treatment for myself versus health risk to my infant by weaning early. Half of my reumatologists said that Plaquenil is safe, while the other half say wean immediately and start the drug. Just curious if you have additional information on the drug's safety wile breastfeeding.
Thanks and regards,
Christine

Saysusie · Posted: Sun Aug 24, 2008 9:03 am Post subject:

tnatemark;
Plaquenil has been found to concentrated in breastmilk. However, Plaquenil is on the list of medicines that the American Academy of Pediatrics says is usually compatible with breastfeeding. The AAP lists no reported signs or symptoms in the infants of mothers taking Plaquenil, although this is not based on many studies or observing large number of infants, so you should still discuss the risks vs. benefits of taking the drug while breastfeeding. It is, however, reassuring to know that it is not on the AAP's list of medicines that are not compatible with breastfeeding or which should be used with caution.
Studies on Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) and breastfeeding have shown that the drug passes through breast milk, but in relatively low amounts (too low to provide any malaria protection for the infant ). Studies also suggest that the risk of eye damage in the infant is very low (eye damage is a known Plaquenil side effect). In general, the benefits outweigh the risks when Plaquenil is used for Lupus. But, still, discuss its use with your doctor!

Peace and Blessings
Saysusie
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