MEDICINES
PATIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
IMPORTED MEDICINES
CONTACT US
UploadHome > HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE
Hydroxychloroquine
This page provides concise information about the medication hydroxychloroquine, including its indications, dosage, administration, mechanism of action, associated brands with strengths, warnings, and prevalent side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Hydroxychloroquine, comprising the active ingredient Hydroxychloroquine, has been a longstanding medication utilized to prevent and treat malaria. It also addresses specific autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. However, its spotlight intensified in early 2020 owing to potential use in combating COVID-19. Amid the pandemic, debates and speculation emerged concerning Hydroxychloroquine’s effectiveness against the disease. Initial laboratory studies and reports suggested its potential antiviral properties and capability to alleviate COVID-19 symptoms. Notably, Hydroxychloroquine obtained initial approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on April 18, 1955.
Mechanism of Action of Hydroxychloroquine
Hydroxychloroquine operates by accumulating within acidic cell compartments, like lysosomes, disrupting multiple cellular processes. It hampers compartment acidification, disrupts antigen processing, and modifies immune cell functionality. Furthermore, this medication potentially possesses antiviral attributes by obstructing viral entry into cells and suppressing viral replication.
AVAILABLE BRANDS
HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE
Available Brands
Uses of Hydroxychloroquine
Hydroxychloroquine addresses various autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, discoid and systemic lupus erythematosus. Autoimmune conditions arise when the body identifies its tissues and cells as foreign and launches attacks against them.
It’s employed to both prevent and treat uncomplicated malaria. Additionally, it serves as a treatment and preventive measure for graft-versus-host disease in individuals who have recently undergone allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
It’s employed to both prevent and treat uncomplicated malaria. Additionally, it serves as a treatment and preventive measure for graft-versus-host disease in individuals who have recently undergone allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
Hydroxychloroquine Drug administaration and Dosage available
Hydroxychloroquine capsules or tablets are taken orally. The medication is usually taken once a day, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole without crushing or chewing it.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Hydroxychloroquine
Warnings
Hydroxychloroquine carries warnings regarding potential cardiac effects, retinal toxicity, blood disorders, allergic reactions, gastrointestinal effects, psychiatric effects, dermatological reactions, pregnancy and breastfeeding considerations, drug interactions, and the lack of recommended use for COVID-19 treatment.
Precautions
To use hydroxychloroquine safely, follow these precautions: consult a healthcare professional, report symptoms promptly, undergo regular eye exams, monitor blood counts if needed, be vigilant for allergic reactions, take it with food, be aware of psychiatric and dermatological changes, consider pregnancy and breastfeeding implications, disclose all medications, and follow recommended guidelines for specific conditions while recognizing its lack of recommendation for COVID-19 treatment.
Side Effects
Hydroxychloroquine can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, rash, abdominal cramps, loss of appetite, and hair loss. Serious side effects, although rare, can include cardiac effects such as QT prolongation, retinal toxicity leading to vision changes, blood disorders, allergic reactions, and potential liver or kidney problems.
Word Of Advice
It is crucial to prioritize safety when considering using Hydroxychloroquine or any other medication. To ensure your well-being, consult a healthcare professional who can guide you based on your medical history and condition. Be aware of potential side effects and report any concerning symptoms promptly. Regular blood monitoring may be necessary, especially in individuals at higher risk or with pre-existing blood disorders. Taking these precautions and maintaining open communication can help promote the safe use of this medicine.
Frequently Asked Question
Major health organizations do not recommend using Hydroxychloroquine to prevent or treat COVID-19. Studies have not provided sufficient evidence to support its effectiveness against the virus.
No, Hydroxychloroquine is not approved or indicated for weight loss purposes. Its use should be strictly for approved medical conditions under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Hydroxychloroquine can be used in children for certain medical conditions, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis or lupus. However, the dosage and safety considerations may vary depending on the child’s age and weight. Consult a pediatric healthcare professional for appropriate guidance.
Prolonged use of Hydroxychloroquine can rarely lead to retinal toxicity, which may result in vision changes or loss of vision. Regular eye examinations are recommended to detect any potential retinal damage.
Hydroxychloroquine is not known to have significant interactions with hormonal birth control pills. However, informing your healthcare professional about all medications you take, including contraceptives, is always recommended to ensure no potential interactions.
Hydroxychloroquine can be used in patients with kidney disease, but dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the level of kidney function. Close monitoring of kidney function is recommended during treatment in individuals with kidney disease.
References
- Zentiva, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2021] [Accessed on 16th May 2023],
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1764.pdf - Douglas F. Lake and Adrienne D. Briggs, Immunopharmacology, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 977-1002.
- Concordia Pharmaceuticals Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Jan 2017] [Accessed on 16th May 2023]
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/009768s037s045s047lbl.pdf - H Khoury et al; Hydroxychloroquine for the prevention of acute graft-versus-host disease after unrelated donor transplantation; Published on 01/11/2003; Accessed on 16/05/2023;
https://www.astctjournal.org/article/S1083-8791(03)00294-5/fulltext
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.