When hydroxychloroquine, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug originally used to treat malaria. Also known as Plaquenil, it is commonly prescribed for autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. isn’t right for you—whether due to side effects, lack of response, or safety concerns—there are other options that work just as well, if not better. Many patients with chronic inflammation need long-term treatment, and hydroxychloroquine isn’t the only drug in the toolbox. Doctors often turn to other antimalarials, immunosuppressants, or biologics depending on the condition, severity, and patient history.
One of the most common alternatives is chloroquine, a closely related antimalarial with similar effects but a higher risk of eye damage. It’s used less often now because hydroxychloroquine is generally safer, but in some cases, it’s still prescribed when cost or availability is an issue. Then there’s sulfasalazine, a drug that reduces inflammation in the joints and gut, often used for rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. It’s cheaper than many newer options and works well for mild to moderate cases. For more aggressive disease, methotrexate, a cornerstone treatment for autoimmune disorders that suppresses the immune system. is the go-to. It’s not an antimalarial, but it’s been the standard for decades because it slows joint damage and reduces flare-ups.
People often assume that if hydroxychloroquine doesn’t work, the only next step is a biologic drug like Humira or Enbrel—but that’s not always true. Many patients respond well to combinations of older drugs like methotrexate and sulfasalazine, avoiding the high cost and infection risks of biologics. Even lifestyle changes—like managing stress, quitting smoking, and getting enough vitamin D—can make these drugs work better. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s why having a range of options matters.
The posts below give you real comparisons of these and other treatments—what they’re used for, how they stack up in side effects, cost, and effectiveness. You’ll find guides on switching from hydroxychloroquine, what to expect when trying sulfasalazine for the first time, and how methotrexate compares to newer options. No fluff. Just clear, practical info to help you talk to your doctor with confidence.
Hydroxychloroquine (Hsquin) is no longer the first choice for lupus or arthritis. Learn about safer, more effective alternatives like methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and biologics - and when to switch.
