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Hydroxychloroquine (HCQS): uses, side effects & brands
Hydroxychloroquine is used for malaria and for autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. It belongs to the Antiparasitic / anthelmintic group. These treat worm infestations and parasitic infections.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antiparasitic / anthelmintic |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus (SLE)
- Malaria prevention and treatment (some areas)
- Some other autoimmune skin and joint conditions
Common brand names
- India: HCQS, Oxcq, Zyq
- Worldwide: Plaquenil
Common side effects
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Headache
- Skin rash or darkening
- Blurred vision (usually temporary)
Before taking it — precautions
- Long-term use needs regular eye checks for retina damage
- Tell your doctor about heart rhythm problems, liver or kidney disease, diabetes or psoriasis
- Keep out of reach of children; an overdose can be very dangerous
When to see a doctor urgently
- Changes in vision or difficulty reading (stop and see a doctor)
- Fainting or a fast, irregular heartbeat (urgent)
- Severe rash, blistering or peeling skin (urgent)
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of hydroxychloroquine depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need eye tests?
Long-term use can rarely damage the retina. Regular checks catch changes early.
How long before it helps arthritis?
It works slowly; benefit may take a few months.
Is it safe in pregnancy?
It is often continued in pregnancy for lupus because stopping can cause flares, but discuss this with your doctor.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.