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Hydroxychloroquine - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Hydroxychloroquine

Generic Name : Hydroxychloroquine
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Hydroxychloroquine are provided here.

Pronunciation : hye-DROX-ee-KLOR-oh-kwin

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Hydroxychloroquine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y41.2 Therapeutic Classification : Anti- Malarials

Trade Names/Brand Names of Hydroxychloroquine

India :

International :


Plaquenil

Why is Hydroxychloroquine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antimalarial agent, prescribed for malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus erythematous. It stops the normal metabolism inside the malarial parasite.

When should Hydroxychloroquine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with eye defects, known hypersensitivity, prolonged use in children.

What is the dosage of Hydroxychloroquine?

PO: 400mg/day for 4 -6 weeks. For maintenance: 200mg/day.

How should Hydroxychloroquine be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Hydroxychloroquine?

•Caution should be exercised in patients with history of eye defects, impaired liver or kidney functions, blood disorder, psoriasis, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

• Monitor complete blood count in patients receiving prolonged therapy.

• Perform eye examination, test periodically for muscle weakness.

• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Hydroxychloroquine?

Most Common- Rash, discoloration of hair, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach cramps, dizziness, muscle pain, nerve pain and loss of appetite.
Central Nervous System- Irritability, nervousness, emotional changes, nightmares, psychosis, headache, fainting, ringing in the ear, involuntary eye movement, nerve deafness, convulsions and unsteadiness.
Eye- Sensitivity to light, vision changes and muscle weakness.
Gastrointestinal- Stomach/abdominal pain, severe nausea/vomiting.
Skin- Easy bleeding/bruising and itching.

What are the other precautions for Hydroxychloroquine?

Patient may develop with mild dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

What are the storage conditions for Hydroxychloroquine?

Oral: Store below 30°C. Store it at room temperature and in airtight container.
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