This article explores the uses of hydroxychloroquine medication and its relationship with the coronavirus, while detailing precautions and associated side effects.
What is hydroxychloroquine medication?
This treatment is classified as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). Its primary hydroxychloroquine uses include treating and preventing malaria. Doctors also include it in treatment plans for certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, to enhance the efficacy of other medications.
The relationship between hydroxychloroquine and the coronavirus
Some doctors anticipated the drug’s effectiveness against the coronavirus due to its ability to treat Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), a disease belonging to the coronavirus family. Its mechanism of action relies on two pathways:
- Preventing viral particles from adhering to cell receptors.
- Reducing the activity of pro-inflammatory proteins resulting from the infection.
Although a dose of 200 mg orally three times daily for 10 days was tested in some patients, the World Health Organization currently does not recommend its use for treating or preventing corona, as its effectiveness has not been proven and serious complications have appeared.
Precautions for using hydroxychloroquine
This treatment is not suitable for all patients and is contraindicated in the following cases:
- Allergy to chloroquine compounds.
- Liver disease, kidney disease, or anemia.
- Bone marrow, blood, or nerve problems.
- Hearing disorders or eye problems.
- Diabetes or psoriasis.
- Muscle, stomach, or intestinal problems.
Generally, the drug should be avoided for those with chronic diseases or those in advanced stages of viral infection, while it may be a suitable option for those with mild symptoms.
Hydroxychloroquine dosing guide and usage instructions
To ensure medication safety, the following must be followed:
- Strict adherence to the doses, timings, and duration specified by the doctor, avoiding sudden cessation.
- Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or splitting it; it is preferable to take it with food to avoid gastrointestinal disturbances.
- Absolutely refrain from using the medication without a prescription to avoid health complications.
Hydroxychloroquine side effects
The side effects of this treatment range from common symptoms to those requiring urgent medical intervention:
Common symptoms:
- Nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
- Headache, dizziness, and loss of balance.
Serious symptoms requiring immediate consultation:
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat.
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs.
- Severe pain in the back, arm, or leg.
- Abnormal changes in weight, skin color, or mood.
- Severe vomiting, unbearable stomach pain, or difficulty hearing.
FAQ
What is hydroxychloroquine medication?
It is an antimalarial treatment and a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, also used to treat certain autoimmune diseases.
Does this medication treat the coronavirus?
The World Health Organization does not recommend its use for this purpose due to lack of proven efficacy and the presence of health risks.
How should the tablets be taken?
The tablet is taken whole with food, with strict adherence to the dose determined by the doctor.
When to visit a doctor?
Medical help should be sought immediately upon the appearance of the following warning signs:
- Feeling shortness of breath or chest pain.
- Noticing sudden swelling in the lower extremities.
- Occurrence of an irregular heartbeat or acute changes in mood.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for consultation with a specialist physician.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team