Hydroxychloroquine
Information about Hydroxychloroquine
Hydroxychloroquine uses
Hydroxychloroquine is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
How hydroxychloroquine works
Hydroxychloroquine blocks the action of certain chemical messengers that are responsible for inflammation, swelling and redness associated with certain autoimmune diseases.
It suppresses the underlying disease process, rather than simply treating the disease.
Common side effects of hydroxychloroquine
Dizziness, Ringing in ear, Blurred vision, Headache, Abdominal pain, Decreased appetite, Skin rash, Itching, Affect lability, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Retinopathy, Vertigo, Pigmentation disorders, Hair loss, Sensory motor disorders, Suicidal behaviors, Nervousness, Abnormal liver function tests, Nausea
Available Medicine for Hydroxychloroquine
Expert advice for Hydroxychloroquine
- You have been prescribed Hydroxychloroquine for the treatment of autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
- It can take 8-12 weeks for Hydroxychloroquine to work. Keep taking it as prescribed.
- Do not take medicines that neutralise stomach acids (antacids) four hours before and after taking Hydroxychloroquine as they can stop the medicine from being absorbed properly from your gut.
- Have regular eye tests done while taking this medicine. Stop taking it and inform your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your vision.
- It can cause lowering of blood glucose level. Inform your doctor if you experience hypoglycemia symptoms such as cold sweats, cool pale skin, tremor, and anxious feeling.
Frequently asked questions for Hydroxychloroquine
Hydroxychloroquine
Q. Is Hydroxychloroquine effective against novel coronavirus infection?
Hydroxychloroquine is currently under study in various clinical trials (research studies in human beings) for the prevention of novel coronavirus infection and treatment of patients with COVID-19 (the illness caused by the novel coronavirus). This medicine has shown some activity against the novel coronavirus in laboratory studies (in vitro studies). However, further evidence is required to conclude that Hydroxychloroquine is effective against the novel coronavirus.
Q. Can Hydroxychloroquine be used for the prophylaxis of the novel coronavirus infection?
The national task force for COVID-19 (constituted by ICMR) has recommended the use of Hydroxychloroquine for prevention of novel coronavirus infection ONLY in certain high-risk populations (ie people at high risk of exposure to the virus) or emergency situations. It can be used for prophylaxis in case of asymptomatic healthcare workers involved in the care of suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 and asymptomatic household contacts of laboratory-confirmed cases.
Q. Do we need to maintain a stock of Hydroxychloroquine?
No, we do not have to maintain a stock of Hydroxychloroquine. If you suspect that you have contracted the novel coronavirus infection, consult a doctor immediately and strictly follow their advice. Do not self-administer Hydroxychloroquine. Keep in mind that this medicine needs to be taken only if prescribed by a registered medical practitioner.