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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What medicines do we take from the total exhaustion and joint pain. I had a steroid injection that lasted for 3 days Good energy

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rogersville, TN

SLE, Psoriasis with arthritis, fibromyalgia, Barrett’s esophagus, and now Rheumatoid

September 27
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MyLupusTeam

Managing exhaustion and joint pain with lupus can feel like a full-time job, and it's frustrating when relief only lasts a few days. Here's a look at some common treatment options that may help:

Medications often used for lupus-related joint pain and fatigue:

- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) — An antimalarial drug that can Show Full Answer

Managing exhaustion and joint pain with lupus can feel like a full-time job, and it's frustrating when relief only lasts a few days. Here's a look at some common treatment options that may help:

Medications often used for lupus-related joint pain and fatigue:

- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) — An antimalarial drug that can help with joint pain and fatigue, though it may take several months to feel the full effect
- Corticosteroids (like prednisone) — Can reduce inflammation quickly, but long-term use carries risks like bone loss and dependence
- Methotrexate — An immunosuppressant sometimes used when other options aren't enough
- Biologics like Belimumab (Benlysta) — Targets specific immune proteins to reduce lupus-related inflammation Since steroid injections gave good energy for a few days, it's worth discussing with your rheumatologist whether a longer-term anti-inflammatory plan could extend that relief more sustainably.

Low-impact exercise like swimming or tai chi, when not in a flare, can also help with joint stiffness and fatigue over time.

Always loop in your doctor before adjusting or adding any medications — especially given everything going on. 💙

September 27
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes i have been on HCQ for 2 years now. But recently started having more joint pain in shoulders, hips and spine. I have mild heart valve disease now, they did not know i had lupus when this was developed. But now it is under control.

September 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

Are you already on HCQ, Mindymay? Over my 41 years with lupus, I have found lifestyle measures critical in managing these symptoms, including plenty of rest, UV protection (SPF 70), a healthy diet, and stress reduction. Exercise has been proven to reduce lupus fatigue, and even gentle exercise like walking helps.

If these measures don't work, you may want to talk to your doctor about stronger meds, although they all suppress immunity (except HCQ), so with mild lupus not involving organs, you and your doctor must weigh the risks and benefits.

I hope you get relief.

September 28

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