Hydroxychloroquine consists of the active ingredient Hydroxychloroquine. It is a medication used for several decades to treat and prevent malaria. It also manages certain autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. However, it gained significant attention in early 2020 due to its potential use in treating COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a lot of speculation and debate about the effectiveness of Hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for the disease. Some early laboratory studies and reports suggested that it might have antiviral properties and be useful in reducing the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Hydroxychloroquine received initial approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on April 18, 1955.

Hydroxychloroquine treats autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and discoid & systemic lupus erythematosus. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body recognizes its tissues and cells as foreign antigens and starts attacking them. 

This medication is used to prevent and treat uncomplicated malaria. It also treats and prevents graft vs. host disease in patients recently undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

1. Zentiva, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2021] [Accessed on 16th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1764.pdf
2. Douglas F. Lake and Adrienne D. Briggs, Immunopharmacology, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 977-1002.
3. 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
4. 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

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.