Hydroxychloroquine, which is an antimalarial and immunomodulatory drug. It is primarily used to treat or prevent malaria. It is also used for the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases. Brand name: Plaquenil.
Key points:
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Action: Modulates the immune response and suppressing the activity of the immune system, particularly the production of inflammatory cytokines. Inhibits certain enzymes and cellular processes involved in the inflammatory response. Alters the pH balance within cells, which may affect antigen processing and presentation to immune cells.
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Antimalarial: Prevents and treats malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and susceptible strains of Plasmodium falciparum. It is often prescribed in combination with other antimalarial medications for optimal efficacy.
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Immunomodulation: Treats of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and other connective tissue disorders. It can help reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms such as joint pain and swelling, and improve overall disease control.
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Administration: Typically taken orally in the form of tablets or suspension. The medication is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimizing side effects.
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Side Effects: Gastrointestinal disturbances (such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea), headache, dizziness, and skin rash. Long-term use may rarely be associated with more serious side effects, such as retinopathy (damage to the retina of the eye), cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease), or neuromyopathy (muscle weakness or neuropathy).