Hydroxychloroquine is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and type 2 diabetes.

Hydroxychloroquine blocks the action of certain chemical messengers that are responsible for inflammation, swelling and redness associated with certain autoimmune diseases. It suppresses the underlying disease process, rather than simply treating the disease.

Headache, Feeling sick, Diarrhoea, Mood changes, Loss of appetite, Abdominal pain

• You may have to wait for 3-6 months to get the full effect.
• You may develop nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea during initiation of the treatment. This can be managed by taking doses with food.
• Tell your doctor immediately if you experience vision changes or a new skin rash.
• Talk to your doctor before taking Hydroxychloroquine if you are pregnant,nursing or planning to become pregnant.

Ques. Q. Is Hydroxychloroquine safe?
Yes. Hydroxychloroquine is safe if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration as advised by your doctor

Ques. Q. Is Hydroxychloroquine an antibiotic?
Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial which is active against malaria causing protozoa (parasite) Plasmodium vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale, and susceptible strains of P. falciparum

Ques. Q. Can I take antihistamines with Hydroxychloroquine?
Most antihistamines do not have any known serious interaction when taken with Hydroxychloroquine. Antihistaminic drug cimetidine (histamine receptor - H2 blocker) may increase blood levels of Hydroxychloroquine. Please inform your doctor about all the medication you are currently taking to avoid interactions that may reduce effectiveness of any treatment or aggravate side effects

Ques. Q. Does Hydroxychloroquine contain get you high?
No, Hydroxychloroquine does not produce any psychological feeling of extreme happiness or colloquially known as ‘feeling high'.