Friday, September 16, 2016

Hydroxychloroquine

Generic Name : Hydroxychloroquine

Pronunciation : hye-DROX-ee-KLOR-oh-kwin

Trade Name(s): 
India- Hcqs Tab, Hqtor Tab, Hydrocad Film-Coated Tab, Hydroquin Tab, Oxcq Tab, Oxy-Q Tab, Winflam Tab, Zy-Q Tab.
International- Plaquenil.


Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is an antimalarial agent, prescribed for malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus erythematous.




When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Contraindicated in patients with eye defects, known hypersensitivity, prolonged use in children.





Pregnancy Category :












A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


When it is to be taken : 
PO: 400mg/day for 4 -6 weeks. For maintenance: 200mg/day.

How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.




Special Instruction : 
*Caution should be exercised in patients with history of eye defects, impaired liver or kidney functions, blood disorder, psoriasis, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

*Monitor complete blood count in patients receiving prolonged therapy.


*Perform eye examination, test periodically for muscle weakness.


*Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Side Effects : 
Most Common-
Rash, discoloration of hair, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach cramps, dizziness, muscle pain, nerve pain and loss of appetite.
Central Nervous System-

Irritability, nervousness, emotional changes, nightmares, psychosis, headache, fainting, ringing in the ear, involuntary eye movement, nerve deafness, convulsions and unsteadiness.
Eye-

Sensitivity to light, vision changes and muscle weakness.
Gastrointestinal-

Stomach/abdominal pain, severe nausea/vomiting.
Skin-

Easy bleeding/bruising and itching.

Other Precautions : 
*Patient may develop with mild dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

Storage Conditions : 
Oral: Store below 30°C. Store it at room temperature and in airtight container.

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