Hydroxychloroquine Tablet 200mg

Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg tablets are a medication with a long history of use for various conditions. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antimalarials and also acts as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD).

The exact way hydroxychloroquine works is not fully understood, but it is known to suppress an overactive immune system. It accumulates in cellular compartments and affects various immune system processes, including:

• Inhibiting T-cell function: It can reduce the activity of certain immune cells that contribute to inflammation.

• Stabilizing cell membranes: It can reduce the release of inflammatory chemicals from cells.

• Raising pH within cells: This can disrupt the function of certain enzymes and immune processes.

For its antimalarial use, it works by accumulating in the parasites that cause malaria and interfering with their ability to break down hemoglobin, which is essential for their survival.

Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg tablets are prescribed for a number of conditions, including:

• Autoimmune diseases:

  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus): It is a cornerstone of treatment for lupus, helping to reduce flares, manage skin and joint symptoms, and prevent long-term organ damage.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): It is used to reduce joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness, and to slow the progression of the disease.

  • Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): A chronic skin condition that causes lesions, often on the face and scalp.

• Malaria:

  • Prevention: It is used to prevent malaria in areas where the parasitic strains are not resistant to the medication.

  • Treatment: It is used to treat uncomplicated malaria.

The dosage of hydroxychloroquine varies significantly depending on the condition being treated.

• For Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis: The typical dose is 200 mg, taken once or twice a day. The beneficial effects of the drug may take several weeks to months to become apparent.

• For Malaria Prevention: It is usually taken once a week on the same day of each week, starting one to two weeks before travel to a malarious area, and continued for four weeks after leaving the area.

It is generally recommended to take hydroxychloroquine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

While generally well-tolerated at typical doses, hydroxychloroquine has important side effects and warnings:

• Eye Problems (Retinopathy): This is the most serious risk. Long-term use or high doses can lead to retinal damage, which can cause irreversible vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial for anyone on long-term treatment.

• Cardiac Effects: It can cause a rare but serious heart rhythm problem known as QT prolongation. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Hydroxychloroquine can cause a significant drop in blood sugar, even in non-diabetic individuals.

• Psychiatric Effects: Rare cases of mental health changes, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, have been reported.

• Other common side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headaches, and skin rashes.