Should Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) be stopped prior to surgery in patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis or lupus?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board

Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review

Article Review Status

Submitted

Under Review

Approved

Last updated: January 22, 2026 • View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Related Questions

Does Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) cause weight gain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus?

What are the alternatives to hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) for treating patients with rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus?

Can a patient with a history of rheumatoid arthritis or lupus experience hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) withdrawal?

What are the potential interactions between hydroxychloroquine and doxycycline in a patient with an autoimmune condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, and impaired renal function?

What are the risks and side effects of hydroxychloroquine in adults with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus?

What is the best approach to treat anemia in a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD)?

What adjustments should be made to iron replacement therapy for a 30-year-old female with heavy menstrual bleeding, iron deficiency anemia, hyperferremia, normal iron binding capacity, high percent saturation, and normal ferritin levels?

Can uremia in a patient with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) cause a skin rash?

What is the recommended titration schedule for a patient using Nicoderm (nicotine) patches to quit smoking?

What are the implications of a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and on dialysis, who still produces a small amount of urine, and how should their treatment be managed?

Is it better for a 21-year-old patient with Asperger syndrome, OCD, and depression, taking 60mg of Fluoxetine (fluoxetine) daily, to take the whole dose in the morning?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.