Unusual Side Effects Of Plaquenil

Plaquenil is a prescription medication containing hydroxychloroquine sulfate. It is used to treat and prevent malaria, a condition brought on by being bitten by a mosquito infected with a protozoa--a one-celled organism. Plaquenil also treats other protozoal conditions, lupus and arthritis. It is available as an oral tablet. While common side effects of hydroxychloroquine include headache, itching, minor vision problems and gastrointestinal upset, unusual side effects may also occur.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss may develop due to Plaquenil use. It is also possible to hear a noise in one or both ears, such as a buzzing or a ringing.

Mood Changes

Plaquenil can cause a change in mood. An individual may feel depressed, nervous or suicidal. He may exhibit an odd thinking pattern that is noticeable to others or he may become emotional--happy one moment, angry or sad the next.

Hair Loss

Plaquenil use can cause increased hair loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may cause new hair growth to appear lightened or bleached. Over time, body hair and facial hair such as eyebrows and eyelashes may lighten. The skin may become sensitive to sunlight.

Blue-Black Skin

Rarely, hydroxychloroquine causes the skin to have blue, black or dark-colored patches. The inside of the mouth may become discolored in the same manner. One or more fingernails or toenails may appear blue, black or purple with long-term medication use.

Blood Disorders

Some individuals become anemic while taking Plaquenil. This can lead to excessive tiredness and difficulty breathing. It is also possible to have a decrease in white blood cells, which increases susceptibility to infection. Some people develop a decreased platelet count, which causes a tendency to bruise and bleed easily and to have difficulty getting bleeding to stop.

Eye Damage

Plaquenil can cause damage to the retina of the eye, explains the text, "Medical-Surgical Nursing." The individual may notice difficulty reading or notice that a portion of her visual field seems to have a blind spot. Her eyes may be sensitive to bright light, and she may have trouble seeing at a distance. Eye damage is an unusual side effect; the risk increases if the drug is taken for an extended period of time.

Fever

Fever and sore throat are rare adverse effects of Plaquenil use, explains the Mayo Clinic. The muscles may become weak, making it difficult to lift heavy objects or exercise for an extended period of time.