Hydroxychloroquine

Dosage Forms Available

• Hydroxychloroquine is available in oral tablet form. 

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medication is not recommended for children unless prescribed for malaria treatment or autoimmune diseases under medical supervision. 

Contraindications

• Hydroxychloroquine is contraindicated in individuals with known allergy to Hydroxychloroquine or similar compounds. It should not be used in patients with a history of retinopathy (eye damage), severe liver or kidney disease, or those with a pre-existing heart condition such as prolonged QT interval.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Avoid taking Hydroxychloroquine with medications that prolong the QT interval, such as certain antibiotics (azithromycin), antifungals (fluconazole), and some antidepressants (citalopram). It should also not be taken with antacids or kaolin-containing products within four hours of administration, as they may interfere with absorption. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to prevent harmful medication interactions.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Hydroxychloroquine can be dangerous, leading to symptoms such as heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, or severe drowsiness. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose occurs. 
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not take two doses together.

Management of Side Effects

• To reduce nausea and vomiting, take Hydroxychloroquine with food or milk. If dizziness occurs, avoid sudden movements and get up slowly from a sitting or lying position. Regular eye check-ups are advised to monitor for vision changes. If any serious side effects such as severe skin reactions, heart irregularities, or vision problems occur, seek medical help immediately.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Hydroxychloroquine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you are sure of how the medication affects you. If you experience vision disturbances, consult your doctor before continuing its use.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Hydroxychloroquine should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. While small amounts of the medication may pass into breast milk, it is usually not harmful to the nursing infant. However, breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking Hydroxychloroquine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution is advised in patients with liver or kidney disease, psoriasis, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as Hydroxychloroquine may worsen these conditions. People with a history of epilepsy or heart conditions should also use this medication with caution, as it may increase the risk of seizures or heart rhythm disturbances.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Take Hydroxychloroquine with food to prevent stomach upset.
• Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity.
• Maintain regular eye check-ups to monitor vision health, especially during long-term use.