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Are stomach aches and afternoon fatigue side effects of hydroxychloroquine after six months of use?

Stomach aches are a recognized side effect of hydroxychloroquine. Common gastrointestinal issues include:

* Stomach pain and cramps
* Nausea
* Upset stomach
* Diarrhea

While these symptoms often improve after a few days as your Show Full Answer

Are stomach aches and afternoon fatigue side effects of hydroxychloroquine after six months of use?

Stomach aches are a recognized side effect of hydroxychloroquine. Common gastrointestinal issues include:

* Stomach pain and cramps
* Nausea
* Upset stomach
* Diarrhea

While these symptoms often improve after a few days as your body adjusts to the medication, some people continue experiencing them longer term. Since you've been on HCQ for six months, it's worth discussing with your doctor whether the stomach aches are related to the medication or something else.

Regarding the 4pm fatigue, this is interesting because HCQ typically helps improve energy levels rather than causing tiredness. However, fatigue and muscle weakness are listed as serious side effects that warrant medical attention.

The timing of your fatigue could be related to several factors:

* When you take your HCQ dose
* How the medication affects your blood sugar levels (HCQ can sometimes cause low blood sugar)
* Whether stomach discomfort is affecting your eating patterns
* Other lupus-related factors

It's important to talk with your doctor about both symptoms. They can help determine if HCQ is the cause and explore solutions like taking the medication with food, adjusting timing, or trying a different formulation.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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