Hydroxychloroquine Phosphate

Hydroxychloroquine Phosphate — Uses and Benefits

Hydroxychloroquine phosphate is mainly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, and also to prevent and treat certain types of malaria.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus and discoid lupus
• Prevention and treatment of malaria in sensitive regions
• Sometimes used for other autoimmune conditions as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Reduces activity of the immune system that causes joint and skin inflammation
• Interferes with the malaria parasite's ability to survive inside red blood cells
• Helps reduce flare-ups and long-term joint damage in autoimmune disease

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 recommended for this use
• Not meant for self-treatment without a doctor's diagnosis

How to Use Hydroxychloroquine Phosphate

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 with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take it at the same time each day to build a routine
• Continue for the full duration advised, even if you feel better, especially for arthritis or lupus
• Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set a reminder or speak to your pharmacist

STORAGE

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

Hydroxychloroquine Phosphate — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Vision changes, difficulty seeing colours, or blind spots
• Unusual heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
• Muscle weakness that does not improve
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (liver problems)
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips, breathing difficulty, severe rash
• Unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of low blood counts (extreme tiredness, infections)

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

Hydroxychloroquine Phosphate — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, or related medicines
• Have a known long-term eye disease affecting the retina
• Have been advised against it due to certain heart rhythm conditions

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 psoriasis or porphyria
• Have a deficiency of the G6PD enzyme
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines affecting heart rhythm
• Insulin or diabetes medicines, as blood sugar levels may change
• Digoxin and certain heart medicines
• Antacids (take at a different time)
• Other drugs affecting the liver, as advised by your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop the medicine once my symptoms improve?

No, stopping suddenly can cause a flare-up; continue as advised by your doctor.

Will I need eye check-ups during treatment?

Yes, regular eye examinations are recommended, especially with long-term use.

Can this medicine be used for COVID-19?

• No, it is not recommended for treating or preventing COVID-19.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.