Plaquenil & Calcium Absorbtion | Arthritis Information

Please has anyone had problems with the body absorbing calcium whilst taking Plaquenil. I have read that magnesium stearate in the Plaquenil, evidently binds to the calcium you are taking in via food or supplement and carries it out of your body.

I am quite confused after reading this because I always believed that the body needs magnesium and calcium along with Vitamin D to help absorbtion.

I'm asking this because I'm having problems with cracked and chipped teeth. I have other reasons why I need this calcium too (early menopause at 40 & Steroid treatment for Asthma for 15 years). Previously my doctor said it was not necessary for me to take a calcium suppliment as long as I have sufficent in my diet.

I have just discussed this with my practice nurse and she has advised I have a blood test for calcium level and my Rheumy is arranging a Bone Density Scan for next year.

Would really appreciate any feedback peeps!

Elaine

elaine50002008-12-03 05:39:21I haven't heard that. I know PPI's can interfere though, if you are taking any of those. I am on aciphex and my calcium dipped recently. My siggy shows I am on plaquenil but it was giving me lots of GI issues so I'm off it. [QUOTE=elaine5000] Thanks for responding, Katie.

Although I have listed Omeprazole as one of my meds I don't need to take it very often. Plaquenil doesn't really give me any GI problems. I think I've only taken the PPI a couple of times...ages ago when I first started Plaquenil.

I have already seen my dentist for treatment to the broken teeth and he wonders if I do have a calcium deficency. So thats why I spoke to my practice nurse about it. Having blood test on Friday.Actually, I think it's the other way around. The calcium blocks the absorption of the Plaquenil.