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Hydroxychloroquine

Uses

Hydroxychloroquine is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, Wilson's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

How it Works

How Hydroxychloroquine Works Hydroxychloroquine blocks the action of specific chemical messengers that contribute to inflammation, swelling, and redness associated with certain autoimmune diseases. It suppresses the underlying disease process rather than merely treating the symptoms.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Hydroxychloroquine include blurred vision, headache, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, skin rash, itching, affect lability, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.

Expert Advice

  • 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 take effect.
  • Continue taking it as prescribed.
  • Do not take medicines that neutralize stomach acids (antacids) four hours before and after taking Hydroxychloroquine, as they can impede the absorption of the medication from your gut.
  • Have regular eye tests while taking this medicine.
  • Stop taking Hydroxychloroquine and inform your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your vision.
  • It can cause a decrease in blood glucose levels.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as cold sweats, cool pale skin, tremors, or feelings of anxiety.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

Hydroxychloroquine should be taken orally with food or milk to avoid stomach upset. Follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and duration, and do not discontinue without consulting your doctor. If taking antacids, ensure a gap of at least 4 hours before or after taking Hydroxychloroquine.
Hydroxychloroquine can affect vision, especially at higher doses or prolonged use (over 5 years). Symptoms may include visual difficulties and sensitivity to light. Consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms, as eye tests may be required.
Yes, ibuprofen can be taken with Hydroxychloroquine as there are no significant interactions between the two.
No, maintaining a stock of Hydroxychloroquine is unnecessary. If you suspect a COVID-19 infection, consult a doctor immediately and follow their guidance. Do not self-administer Hydroxychloroquine without a prescription.
Stopping Hydroxychloroquine without consulting your doctor may worsen your condition. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing the medication, even if you feel better.
Hydroxychloroquine is recommended for preventing coronavirus only in high-risk groups or emergency situations, and it should be taken strictly as prescribed by your doctor.
Hydroxychloroquine may take weeks or months to show effects. Continue taking the medication regularly, and your doctor may prescribe additional medications for temporary symptom relief.
Yes, if you have diabetes, be cautious with Hydroxychloroquine as it can lower blood glucose levels significantly. Monitor your blood glucose regularly and contact your doctor if levels drop.
An eye test is required before starting Hydroxychloroquine and should be repeated annually. Your doctor may also recommend regular blood counts and liver function tests, and may discontinue Hydroxychloroquine if abnormalities are detected.
Hydroxychloroquine is being studied in clinical trials for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. While it has shown some activity against the virus in laboratory studies, more evidence is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
The national task force for COVID-19 recommends Hydroxychloroquine for prophylaxis only in specific high-risk groups or emergency situations, such as asymptomatic healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients and asymptomatic household contacts of confirmed cases.
Yes, you can take Hydroxychloroquine, but maintain a gap of at least 4 hours between it and antacids to avoid interference with absorption and effectiveness.
Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial drug with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. It is not a steroid, opioid, or painkiller. It acts by destroying the malaria parasite and reducing joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.
If you develop COVID-19 symptoms while taking Hydroxychloroquine, consult your doctor immediately. They will advise on testing and isolation as needed.
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