What are the uses of hydroxychloroquine? What are the side effects of hydroxychloroquine? What are the interactions of hydroxychloroquine? What are the warnings and dosing for hydroxychloroquine?

Uses of Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine is primarily used to prevent or treat malaria caused by mosquito bites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides updated guidelines and travel recommendations for the prevention and treatment of malaria in different parts of the world. Patients should discuss the most recent information with their doctor before traveling to areas where malaria is prevalent.

In addition, hydroxychloroquine is also used to treat certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. It belongs to a class of medications known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and can reduce skin problems in lupus and prevent swelling and pain in arthritis.

It is important to note that hydroxychloroquine is not recommended for the treatment of coronavirus infection, also known as COVID-19, unless the patient is enrolled in a study. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor.

How to Use Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine should be taken exactly as directed by the doctor. To help prevent stomach upset, it should be taken with food or milk. The tablets should be swallowed whole, as breaking or crushing them may leave a bitter taste.

The dosage and length of treatment are based on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dose is also based on weight.

To prevent malaria, patients should take hydroxychloroquine by mouth as directed by their doctor, usually once a week on the same day each week. The medication is typically started 1 to 2 weeks before entering the malarious area, continued while in the area, and for 4 to 8 weeks after leaving the area, or as directed by the doctor.

To treat malaria, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions.

For lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, patients should take hydroxychloroquine by mouth as directed by their doctor, usually once or twice daily. The doctor may gradually increase the dose, and once the condition has improved, the doctor may instruct the patient to lower the dose until the optimal dose with the fewest side effects is found.

If the patient is also taking a certain drug for diarrhea (kaolin) or taking antacids (such as magnesium/aluminum hydroxide), they should take hydroxychloroquine at least 4 hours before or after these products, as they may bind with hydroxychloroquine and prevent the body from fully absorbing it.

Side Effects of Hydroxychloroquine

Common side effects of hydroxychloroquine may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness, or headache. If these effects persist or worsen, patients should inform their doctor or pharmacist.

Patients should tell their doctor right away if they experience any serious side effects, such as slow heartbeat, symptoms of heart failure, mental/mood changes, hearing changes, easy bruising/bleeding, signs of liver or kidney problems, muscle weakness, or unwanted/uncontrolled movements.

Hydroxychloroquine may also cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Patients with diabetes should be sure to check their blood sugar regularly, and their doctor may need to adjust their diabetes medication.

Interactions and Warnings with Hydroxychloroquine

Patients should inform their doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements they are currently taking, as hydroxychloroquine may interact with certain drugs.

Hydroxychloroquine may not prevent malaria in all cases. If a patient experiences fever or other symptoms of illness, they should seek medical help immediately, especially while in a malarious area and for 2 months after returning from the area, as they may need a different medication.

Patients should also avoid exposure to mosquitoes to further reduce the risk of contracting malaria.

Dosing and Administration of Hydroxychloroquine

The dosage and administration of hydroxychloroquine may vary depending on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment. Patients should take the medication exactly as prescribed by their doctor and should not stop taking it without consulting their doctor, especially if it is being used for malaria prevention or treatment.

It is important for patients to continue taking the medication for the full length of time prescribed, as stopping prevention or treatment too soon may lead to infection or a return of the infection.

Conclusion

Hydroxychloroquine is a versatile medication used to prevent and treat malaria, as well as manage certain autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. While generally well-tolerated, it can have serious side effects and interactions, so patients should closely follow their doctor’s instructions and report any concerning symptoms immediately.