RHQ 200MG TABLET

Uses and Benefits of RHQ 200MG TABLET (HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE 200MG)

Hydroxychloroquine is mainly used for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions and for prevention and treatment of malaria.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Discoid lupus (a skin form of lupus)
• Prevention and treatment of certain types of malaria

HOW IT WORKS

• Reduces overactivity of the immune system that causes joint and skin inflammation
• Interferes with the growth of malaria parasites inside red blood cells
• Helps reduce flares and long-term joint damage in autoimmune disease when taken regularly

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller for general pain or fever
• Not used for viral infections like common cold or flu
• Not a first-line treatment for COVID-19; not proven effective for this use
• Not to be used for self-treatment of undiagnosed joint pain or rash without a doctor's diagnosis

Side Effects of RHQ 200MG TABLET (HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE 200MG)

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or stomach upset
• Loss of appetite
• Mild diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Changes in skin colour
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Mood changes or irritability
• Blurred near vision

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Vision changes such as difficulty seeing colours, blind spots, or reduced night vision
• Muscle weakness that gets worse over time
• Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Signs of low blood sugar such as sudden sweating and confusion
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use RHQ 200MG TABLET (HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE 200MG)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food or milk to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says so
• Take it at the same time(s) each day to help you remember
• Continue taking it for the full duration your doctor recommends, even if you feel well, especially for autoimmune conditions
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture and bathrooms
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Safety Information and Precautions for RHQ 200MG TABLET (HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE 200MG)

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, or related medicines
• Have a known eye condition affecting the retina (maculopathy)
• Have been advised against it by your doctor due to certain heart rhythm problems

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing eye problems or are due for an eye check-up
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a heart condition, including irregular heartbeat
• Have a G6PD enzyme deficiency
• Have psoriasis or porphyria
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are on long-term treatment, as periodic eye and blood tests may be needed

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines affecting heart rhythm (like certain antiarrhythmics or antibiotics)
• Insulin or diabetes medicines, as blood sugar levels may be affected
• Digoxin, as levels may increase
• Methotrexate and other immune-suppressing medicines
• Antacids, which should be taken a few hours apart from this medicine

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine for a long time?

Yes, it is often used long-term for autoimmune conditions, but regular eye and health check-ups are needed.

Will this medicine cure lupus or arthritis completely?

No, it helps control symptoms and prevent flares but does not cure the underlying disease.

Is it safe to take during pregnancy?

• It is sometimes used in pregnancy under close medical supervision, but you must not decide this yourself; always consult your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.