I have been on plaquenil for about 3 years. At one time, i tried to stop taking it due to money issues. I started experiencing joint pain in my hips. Does Plaquenil actually stop joint pain in Lupus or does it just slow your progress in Lupus? It was never actually explained to me and I have stopped going to my rheumatologist due to his negative attitude. He was alway "you can't do this, don't do this, etc". My family doctor prescribes my medicine and is taking care of any flares. I just need some more information on Plaquenil and its uses in Lupus.