Hydroxychloroquine (400mg)

Hydroxychloroquine (400mg) — Uses and Benefits

Hydroxychloroquine 400mg is mainly used to treat and prevent malaria, and to manage certain long-term autoimmune conditions.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment and prevention of malaria
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Other autoimmune or inflammatory conditions as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Interferes with the growth and multiplication of malaria parasites inside red blood cells
• Reduces activity of the immune system, which helps lower inflammation and joint damage in autoimmune diseases
• Helps control disease flares over time when taken regularly

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller for general body ache or fever
• It is not used for viral infections like common cold or flu
• It should not be used for COVID-19 unless specifically advised by a doctor, as current evidence does not support routine use
• It is not a quick-relief medicine; benefits in autoimmune disease may take weeks to months to appear

This medicine should only be used for the condition your doctor has prescribed it for, at the dose and duration advised.

How to Use Hydroxychloroquine (400mg)

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 at the same time each day to help you remember
• Do not stop the medicine on your own even if you feel better, especially for autoimmune conditions, as benefits build up over time
• Continue regular eye check-ups if you are on long-term treatment, as advised by 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
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original container, tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Hydroxychloroquine (400mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Stomach upset or pain
• Loss of appetite
• Mild diarrhoea
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Dizziness
• Changes in skin or hair colour
• Mood changes or irritability

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Blurred vision, difficulty seeing, or other vision changes
• Muscle weakness
• Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
• Signs of low blood sugar such as excessive sweating, shakiness, confusion
• Severe skin reaction such as blistering, peeling, or widespread rash
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising, signs of low blood counts

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

Hydroxychloroquine (400mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should not be used without a valid doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Have a pre-existing condition affecting the retina of the eye
• Have been advised against it by your doctor due to specific heart rhythm problems

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have any heart condition, including irregular heartbeat
• Have psoriasis or other skin conditions
• Have a deficiency of the enzyme G6PD
• Have any existing eye problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect heart rhythm
• Medicines for diabetes, as this can increase the risk of low blood sugar
• Digoxin and certain heart medicines
• Antacids (take at a different time)
• Certain antibiotics
• Immunosuppressant medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine for COVID-19?

No, it should only be used for COVID-19 if specifically prescribed by your doctor, as routine use is not recommended by current guidelines.

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

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

Do I need any tests while on this medicine?

• Yes, your doctor may recommend regular eye examinations and blood tests during long-term treatment.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.