Introduction

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has been used to treat lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for more than 50 years. The drug is also prescribed for other autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis and Crohn’s disease. Despite its long history of use, there is little evidence that HCQ is effective in treating these conditions or can reduce their symptoms. Additionally, there are significant risks associated with prescribing HCQ to patients who have autoimmune diseases—especially if they’re taking other medications or supplements that interact with the drug.”

There is little reason to believe that hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) would be effective in patients with autoimmune diseases, and the drug has significant side effects.

There is little reason to believe that hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) would be effective in patients with autoimmune diseases, and the drug has significant side effects. The FDA has not approved HCQ for use in treating autoimmune diseases or any other condition. Additionally, while HCQ may have some benefits on certain inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease, it is not a first-line treatment for these conditions due to its lack of effectiveness and potential side effects.

Physicians are prescribing hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) to some patients diagnosed with autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

HCQ is an antimalarial drug that has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases. It’s not approved by the FDA for use in autoimmune diseases, but physicians are prescribing it to some patients diagnosed with these conditions.

While HCQ does have significant side effects and does not cure or prevent these diseases from progressing, it may be effective for some people who do not respond well to other treatments. If you’re considering taking this drug—or any other medication—be sure to talk with your doctor first before making any changes in your medical care plan

Because HCQ has antiviral activity against Sars-CoV-2 in vitro, physicians have begun to prescribe it to patients at home who have COVID-19 or are at risk for developing the disease.

Because HCQ has antiviral activity against Sars-CoV-2 in vitro, physicians have begun to prescribe it to patients at home who have COVID-19 or are at risk for developing the disease. It is not approved for this use in the United States, so patients may experience adverse effects or complications that could result from its use.

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)’s side effects in patients with COVID-19

Hydroxychloroquine’s side effects can result from the drug being taken in large doses or for a long period of time (for example, when used in combination with other medications), or from its interactions with other medications. This explains why some patients with COVID-19 have developed heart arrhythmias (unusual heart rhythms) and other issues in response to the drug.

But there is no evidence that HCQ will help treat autoimmune disease, and physicians should first try other approved therapies.

But there is no evidence that HCQ will help treat autoimmune disease, and physicians should first try other approved therapies.

HCQ is not approved for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. However, it has been used as an antimalarial agent in some countries since 1951. It also has been shown to reduce fever in people with malaria and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

The most common adverse effects of HCQ include nausea, vomitting and abdominal pain, as well as headache, dizziness and nervousness.

The most common adverse effects of HCQ include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, as well as headache, dizziness and nervousness. Nausea occurs in about 5-10% of people who take HCQ. Vomiting can occur in about 1-3% of those who take HCQ. Abdominal pain is also possible with HCQ; however it is not known how common this is. Headaches are also commonly reported side effect after taking hydroxychloroquine tablets, but no specific studies exist to confirm these reports.[1] Dizziness has been reported less frequently than other side effects such as nausea or abdominal pain.[2]

Patients taking HCQ for longer than 5 years may suffer from eye toxicity.

  • HCQ can cause permanent vision loss if taken for more than 5 years.
  • HCQ may also cause cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye problems that may be inherited.
  • People with a history of eye problems should consult their doctor before taking HCQ.

As a result of these toxicities, only a few physicians in the United States prescribe the drug for long-term use.

As a result of these toxicities, only a few physicians in the United States prescribe the drug for long-term use. In general, HCQ is not approved for use in autoimmune diseases and should not be used to treat any condition that may cause autoimmunity.

It is important to note that HCQ can lead to severe side effects such as skin rashes, nausea and vomiting if taken at high doses or over an extended period of time. If you have been prescribed this medication and are experiencing any side effects such as skin rashes or abdominal pain please contact your doctor immediately because this could indicate signs of an overdose which could be life threatening!

The risks associated with prescribing HCQ to patients with autoimmune diseases outweigh any potential benefits.

In the United States, hydroxychloroquine is not approved for treating autoimmune diseases. It should be used in conjunction with other medications and therapies that are effective at treating these conditions.

Hydroxychloroquine has serious side effects that can cause serious problems if you take it long term or continue to use it after your doctor tells you to stop taking it. These side effects include:

  • Tremors (shaking)
  • Memory problems
  • Bone loss

Conclusion

In conclusion, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a recognized drug used to treat autoimmune diseases. However, there is little evidence that it will be effective in patients with autoimmune diseases and the drug has significant side effects. Physicians should first try other approved therapies before prescribing HCQ to patients at home who have COVID-19 or are at risk for developing the disease.