Hydroxychloroquine is a derivative of chloroquine that has been used for decades to treat and prevent malaria. It works by increasing the pH inside parasite lysosomes, interfering with the parasite’s ability to digest haemoglobin. Hydroxychloroquine also has immunomodulatory properties that make it useful in treating autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg tablets provide a higher dose for situations where lower strengths are insufficient, such as for initiation of therapy or short courses of malaria prophylaxis. Because the drug has a long half‑life, it is typically taken once or twice per week after an initial loading period.

When used for malaria prevention, hydroxychloroquine is taken one week before travel to endemic areas, continued during the stay, and for four weeks after leaving. For autoimmune conditions, dosing varies but often starts with 400 mg daily and then tapers to 200 mg. The tablets should be taken with food or milk to minimise stomach upset. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, headache, and itching. Because hydroxychloroquine can accumulate in retinal tissue, periodic eye examinations are recommended to monitor for retinopathy, especially with high doses or long treatment duration. In rare cases, it can affect heart rhythm; individuals with arrhythmias should use caution.

Hydroxychloroquine should not be taken by individuals with known hypersensitivity to chloroquine analogues or by those with existing retinal or visual field changes. It may interact with medications such as digoxin, insulin, antacids, and antiepileptics, so inform your doctor of all medicines you are taking. It should be used cautiously in pregnancy and nursing only when the benefits outweigh the risks. Never exceed your prescribed dose, and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience visual disturbances, muscle weakness, or signs of severe hypoglycaemia.

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