Hydroxychloroquine is a mild immune-modulating drug. In lupus it reduces flares, protects the kidneys and lowers the risk of blood clots, which is why nearly every lupus patient is advised to stay on it long-term. In rheumatoid arthritis it is usually combined with other DMARDs.
How long it takes
Two to three months, and sometimes up to six, before the full benefit.
How to take it
- Daily, with food to reduce stomach upset.
- The dose is calculated from your body weight. Do not change it yourself.
- Keep it well out of children's reach. A small number of tablets can be very dangerous to a child.
Common side effects
Most are mild and many settle. Mention them at your next visit; there is often a simple fix.
- Nausea, stomach upset or loose stools in the first weeks
- Headache
- Skin rash
- Rarely, darkening of the skin with long-term use
Call the clinic the same day if you have
- Any change in vision: difficulty reading, missing parts of words, flashes or blurring
- A widespread rash, especially with fever
- Muscle weakness
Clinic: +91 70571 19999. If you are very unwell, go to the nearest emergency department and take your medicine strip with you.
Blood tests & checks
- A baseline eye examination within the first year
- Yearly retinal screening (OCT scan and visual fields) after five years of treatment, or sooner if you have kidney disease or other risk factors
- Routine blood tests are usually not needed for hydroxychloroquine itself
Pregnancy & family planning
- Hydroxychloroquine is safe in pregnancy and is usually continued. In lupus, stopping it raises the risk of a flare during pregnancy.
- It is compatible with breastfeeding.
Alcohol, infections, vaccines & other medicines
Infections
Hydroxychloroquine does not suppress the immune system in the way other DMARDs do, and it does not meaningfully raise infection risk.
Eye damage
Retinal damage is uncommon and related to dose and duration. Screening exists to catch it before you would notice any change, which is why the appointments matter.