Hydroxychloroquine Flashcards

Hydroxychloroquine Overview

• Used to relieve severe inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis and lupus.
• Effective as prophylaxis and treatment for malaria, particularly in patients unresponsive to other anti-inflammatory drugs.

Therapeutic and Pharmacologic Class

• Classified as an antirheumatic drug and an antimalarial.
• Falls under the category of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Administration Alerts

• Take hydroxychloroquine at the same time daily to maintain consistent levels in the body.
• Recommended to be taken with milk to minimize gastrointestinal (GI) upset.
• Store safely to prevent accidental toxicity, especially in children.
• Classified as pregnancy category C, indicating potential risks.

Pharmacokinetics

• Onset of therapeutic effects for rheumatic conditions typically occurs within 4-6 weeks.
• Peak blood concentration reached in 1-2 hours after administration.
• Duration of action remains unknown.

Adverse Effects

• Common side effects include anorexia, GI disturbances, and hair loss.
• Possible adverse ocular effects, headaches, and mood or mental changes.
• Risk of irreversible retinal changes in patients on high doses or prolonged therapy.

Contraindications

• Not suitable for individuals hypersensitive to hydroxychloroquine or those with retinal changes linked to quinoline drugs.

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may hinder absorption of hydroxychloroquine.
• Increases liver toxicity risk when used with hepatotoxic drugs.
• Alcohol should be avoided.
• May elevate digoxin levels and interfere with rabies vaccine efficacy.

Treatment of Overdose

• Overdose poses life-threatening risks, particularly in children.
• Management may require anticonvulsants, vasopressors, and antidysrhythmics to alleviate critical symptoms.

Trade Name

• Marketed under the trade name Plaquenil.