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Is Hydroxychloroquine useful ?

WHAT IS HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE(HCQ)?

It is a derivative of chloroquine that has both antimalarial and antiinflammatory activities and is now most often used as an antirheumatological agent in systemic lupus erthematosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
It is only found in individuals who have taken this drug.


As an antirheumatic , hydroxychloroquine  is thought to act as a mild immunosuppressant,inhibiting the production of rheumatoid factor and acute phase reactants.
It is also a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). It regulates the activity of the immune system, which amy be overactive in some conditions. 

IS IT SAFE?

Hydroxychloroquine (plaquenil) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for symptoms of lupus.
Anew investigation analyzed the retinal changes over a five year period in people with lupus and did not find clinically relevant retinal changes in the group.
Thus the study concludes thst this is safe for long term use at doses <5mg/kg/day.

ROLE OF HYDROXY-CHLOROQUINE IN COVID 19

It is found to be effective against coronavirus in laboratory studies and in vivo studies. It's ise in prophylaxis is derived from available evidence of benefits as treatment and supported by pre-clinical data.
The following recommendation for the use of hydroxy chloroquine as a prophylactic against SARS-CoV-2 infection is based on these considerations as well as risk benefit consideration under exceptional circumstance that call for the protection of high risk individuals.

USES

It is used to treat also:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • SLE(Systemic lupus erythromatosus)
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Over the long term hydroxychloroquine can reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness.


SIDE EFFECTS

  • Loosening of the skin.
  • Blurred vision
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Decreased urination
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Sore throat

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