Please see your dermatologist, as this may be an atypical allergic reaction to HCQ. Also, be aware that you must weigh at least 176 pounds to safely take that large a dose of HCQ. This is per ophthalmologists' guidelines to reduce the risk of vision loss. I would discuss this with your doctor if you weigh less.
September 1
Raised, rough bumps along the jawline can definitely be a frustrating symptom to deal with, and you're not alone in experiencing skin changes like this with cutaneous lupus.
Some MyLupusTeam members have shared similar experiences with skin bumps and rashes that developed even while on hydroxychloroquine. Since Show Full Answer
Raised, rough bumps along the jawline can definitely be a frustrating symptom to deal with, and you're not alone in experiencing skin changes like this with cutaneous lupus.
Some MyLupusTeam members have shared similar experiences with skin bumps and rashes that developed even while on hydroxychloroquine. Since hydroxychloroquine can take anywhere from one to three months to reach its full effect, at 5–6 months you should be getting closer to seeing its full benefit — but skin symptoms can still persist or change during this time. Here are a few things worth considering:
- Talk to your rheumatologist or dermatologist about the new bumps as soon as possible — they can determine if this is a lupus flare or a reaction to hydroxychloroquine
- Skin reactions to hydroxychloroquine can include rashes, itching, or bumps, so it's important to rule that out
- Your doctor may adjust your treatment, such as adding a corticosteroid like prednisone to help control inflammation
- Sun protection is especially important with cutaneous lupus, as UV exposure can worsen skin symptoms
Don't try to manage this on your own — a doctor needs to see those bumps to give you the best guidance. 💛
August 31