The FDA recently conducted an inspection of the only manufacturer that had FDA approval to import quinacrine. Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not pass inspection and was put on an import alert. This effectively shuts down any importation of quinacrine to the U.S. until the manufacturer goes through the necessary steps to be re-inspected or until another manufacturer chooses to register with the FDA and is willing to go through the regulatory processes to provide quinacrine.
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The ACR has been communicating directly with FDA drug shortage staff, as well as working with other provider and patient organizations, to find a solution to the shortage and resulting access problems. We understand that many of your patients are growing concerned over their inability to access quinacrine. For patient questions and support, we suggest directing patients to their respective patient organizations. On the provider front, know the ACR will continue to engage on this issue, and we hope to provide a positive update in the near future.
Questions can be directed to ACR staff at advocacy@rheumatology.org.
Updated with new information on March 13, 2019
Hi my name is Mary,I’ve been on quinacrine 100 mg capsules..are people having really bad side effects from this medication or has anyone died?? Thankyou
Hello Mary,
I have taken Quinacrine for more than 10 years and had no ill effects. It is the only medicine that works for me without any side effects. All others, like Plaquenil, are far too strong and cause me terrible problems. I get Quinacrine compounded locally so no issue with the import issue above.
Beth
Hello Beth, we just find out our daughter needs to go on Quincrine . Very hard to get it. do u mind sharing where r you getting it from? and is it cover by your insurance? I got one place in Philadelphia for almost 400$ a month they say insurance wont cover as it made of powder. if you can share any useful info that would be highly appreciated . thanks so much Yael
Hi Beth,
My wife has been on quinacrine for three years and it was only thing to help her. There are no pharmacies in our area that supply quinacrine due to shortage. Do you mind giving the information about the pharmacy that still supplies quinacrine. My wife’s every day life has been changed due to pain and the in ability to take other drugs like plaquenil. If you do reply, it would allow my wife to have better days like she used to before the shortage.
Thank you
Chad M.
Hi where are you located to supply. Ship me please
I have been on Quinacrine for about 3 years now. Plaquenil began affecting my vision and can no longer utilize that drug. Quinacrine has been a wonder drug for me. I don’t believe the FDA understands what this drug does for many of us. Unfortunately it will encourage many of us to take additional pain medications- which is being seriously regulated. I truly hate having to take those medications. I’m not sure why the U.S is purchasing this drug from another country- with our technology etc- we should be able to perhaps make a similar compound. It took me years to increase the quality of my life: now I’m being forced to reduce the quality that I had to fight so hard for.
I have been taking Quinacrine 100mg since 2016. No ill effects. Containment of my Lupus depends on it. I need the drug to survive. Please advise of any new developments.