Virtual visit

Plaquenil® (hydroxychloroquine)

Not just for flares, Plaquenil is a long-term option for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Used consistently, it's linked to fewer flares and less reliance on stronger medications. After you book, your clinician reviews your history so your visit is about finding the right fit for you, whether that's Plaquenil or another option.

One of the most prescribed long-term medications for lupus

May reduce reliance on stronger immunosuppressants over time

Taken once daily — straightforward to fit into a daily routine

Visit options

Costs shown are for the visit only. You'll pay for medication at your preferred pharmacy.

Video Visit

$25

Est. or $100 w/o insurance

Most insurance accepted

Board-certified clinicians

No hidden fees

Available nationwide

What is Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine)?

Plaquenil is an antimalarial medication widely used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It works by calming an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks your own tissues. Unlike traditional immunosuppressants, Plaquenil modulates immune activity rather than broadly suppressing it, making it a gentler long-term option. It's taken daily and may take several weeks to months before you notice its full benefit—but it's considered a cornerstone therapy for managing many chronic inflammatory conditions.

Immune modulation

Interferes with how immune cells process and respond to inflammatory signals, reducing the autoimmune activity that causes joint pain, rashes, and organ inflammation.

Lysosomal disruption

Accumulates in immune cells and raises their internal pH, interfering with processes that trigger excessive inflammatory responses in autoimmune disease.

Disease modification

Unlike pain relievers that mask symptoms, Plaquenil works at the root cause of inflammation—helping slow disease progression over time with consistent use.

Ongoing support, always available.

You’ll be supported by experienced clinicians who care for a wide range of health needs, from everyday concerns to more complex conditions.

Our clinicians track your progress over time and adjust your care as needed. If medication is prescribed, we’ll manage dosing and monitor for side effects. If lab testing is recommended, we review results and refine your plan accordingly. You’re never left to navigate care on your own.

All your care in one place. That’s the General Medicine difference.

We help you understand your options, connect you to the right clinicians, manage prescriptions, coordinate any needed evaluations, and keep an eye on your overall health along the way. It’s comprehensive care that looks at the full picture — your goals, your history, your lifestyle — and makes it simple to move forward with confidence.

What our customers have to say

“I feel like I’m finally on the right path to improving my health with the right support now! It’s so refreshing and reassuring.”

Emerald

“My experience with General Medicine was amazing. The understanding and care that was taken to figure out what is exactly going on with me. I feel like a weight has been lifted off of me.”

Kaylee

“I couldn’t be happier with my experience with General Medicine! They are fast, responsive, kind and knowledgeable. It is much easier, more affordable and faster.”

Nika

Get the care you need, without the wait.

Frequently asked questions

How long before I notice a difference?

Plaquenil works gradually. Most people begin noticing symptom improvement after 2–3 months of consistent use, with full benefit sometimes taking up to 6 months to become apparent.

Do I need regular monitoring while on Plaquenil?

Yes. Annual eye exams are recommended because long-term use can rarely cause retinal changes. Your clinician will also periodically monitor your overall response and disease activity.

Can I take Plaquenil during pregnancy?

Plaquenil is generally considered one of the safer options for managing lupus and rheumatoid arthritis during pregnancy. Many rheumatologists recommend continuing it to prevent flares, which can themselves pose risks.

What side effects might I experience?

Nausea and stomach upset are most common, often reduced by taking it with food. Increased sun sensitivity can occur. Serious eye effects are rare but monitored through regular ophthalmology exams.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

Not without talking to your clinician first. Many people experience a disease flare within weeks of stopping Plaquenil, even after feeling well for an extended period of time.