Hydroxychloroquine (300mg)

Hydroxychloroquine (300mg) — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is mainly used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory joint conditions, and certain types of malaria.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus
• Prevention and treatment of certain types of malaria
• Sometimes used for other autoimmune or skin conditions as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It calms an overactive immune system, reducing joint pain, swelling and inflammation
• It interferes with the growth of malaria parasites in the blood
• It may take several weeks to months of regular use before full benefit is seen in autoimmune conditions

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller for everyday aches like headache or muscle strain
• It is not used to treat viral infections such as common cold or flu
• It should not be used for COVID-19 unless specifically advised by a qualified doctor, as evidence does not support routine use
• It is not a substitute for other prescribed malaria treatment in severe or complicated cases

How to Use Hydroxychloroquine (300mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food or a glass of milk to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says so
• Take it at the same time each day to help you remember
• Continue taking it for as long as your doctor advises, even if you feel well, especially in autoimmune conditions
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor
• Regular eye check-ups are usually recommended during long-term use

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 sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack, out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Hydroxychloroquine (300mg) — Side Effects

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, difficulty seeing clearly, or blind spots (may indicate eye toxicity with long-term use)
• Unusual heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
• Muscle weakness that does not improve
• Signs of low blood sugar such as sweating, shaking, confusion
• Severe skin reaction with blistering, peeling or mouth sores
• Signs of low blood counts such as unusual bruising, bleeding, or repeated infections

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

Hydroxychloroquine (300mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, or any related compound
• Have a pre-existing condition affecting the retina of the eye (maculopathy)
• Have been advised against it due to certain heart rhythm problems

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any eye or vision problems
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a heart condition, especially irregular heartbeat
• Have diabetes, as this medicine can affect blood sugar
• Have a G6PD enzyme deficiency
• Have psoriasis or certain other skin conditions
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect heart rhythm
• Insulin or diabetes tablets, as blood sugar effects may be increased
• Antacids (take at least a few hours apart)
• Certain antibiotics and antiepileptic drugs
• Methotrexate and other immune-modulating medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to work for arthritis or lupus?

It often takes several weeks to a few months of regular use before you notice improvement, so do not stop early.

Will I need regular eye tests?

Yes, doctors usually recommend baseline and periodic eye examinations because long-term use can rarely affect the retina.

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

• Only if your doctor specifically advises it, as use during pregnancy needs careful medical judgement.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.