Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg (HCQS 400)

What is Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg?
Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg is a prescription medication widely used to treat autoimmune disorders and malaria. It belongs to the antimalarial and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) class, known for its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and controlling disease progression.

Key Uses of Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg

1. Autoimmune Disorders:
   • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Manages inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness.
   • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Reduces flare-ups and supports long-term disease control.
   • Sjögren’s Syndrome: Helps alleviate symptoms like dry eyes and fatigue.
2. Malaria Treatment and Prevention:
   • Effective against malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and certain P. falciparum strains.
   • Used for both prevention and treatment of uncomplicated malaria.
3. Other Applications (Off-Label):
   • Occasionally used for managing certain dermatological conditions, such as photosensitivity or skin disorders linked to autoimmune diseases.

How Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg Works

• For Malaria: Hydroxychloroquine interferes with the replication and metabolism of malaria-causing parasites.
• For Autoimmune Diseases: It modulates immune system activity, reducing inflammation and preventing immune system attacks on healthy tissues.

Dosage and Administration

• Autoimmune Disorders:
  • The standard dose is 200–400 mg daily, adjusted based on the condition and response to treatment.
• Malaria Treatment:
  • Administered as an initial high dose, followed by smaller doses over a few days.
• Malaria Prevention:
  • Typically 400 mg weekly, starting 1–2 weeks before travel to an endemic area and continuing for 4 weeks after departure.
• How to Take:
  • Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water, preferably with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and duration.

Precautions and Warnings

1. Medical Considerations:
   • Avoid if you have a history of retinal damage, vision problems, or allergic reactions to hydroxychloroquine.
   • Use cautiously if you have liver or kidney issues, diabetes, or psoriasis.
2. Drug Interactions:
   • May interact with medications such as digoxin, antacids, and certain antibiotics. Disclose all medications and supplements to your doctor.
3. Potential Side Effects:
   • Common: Nausea, headache, dizziness, and mild skin rashes.
   • Serious: Retinal toxicity, vision changes, muscle weakness, or severe allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects.

Benefits of Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg

• Effective for Chronic Conditions: Provides long-term control of autoimmune disorders.
• Proven Malaria Treatment: Reliable for preventing and treating malaria in endemic regions.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Helps manage inflammation-related symptoms effectively.

Important Notes

• Regular Monitoring: Patients on long-term therapy should have periodic eye exams to detect any early signs of retinal damage.
• Not a Self-Medication Option: Avoid using Hydroxychloroquine for viral infections like COVID-19 without a doctor’s advice.
• Consult Your Doctor: Always seek medical advice to ensure the correct dosage and to rule out contraindications.