Questions and Answers
Which therapeutic class does hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) belong to?
What is the pharmacologic class of hydroxychloroquine?
The mechanism of action of hydroxychloroquine is known.
False
What are the therapeutic uses of hydroxychloroquine?
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Some complications of hydroxychloroquine include ________.
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What are the contraindications for hydroxychloroquine?
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List some nursing interventions for patients taking hydroxychloroquine.
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What is important client education for patients taking hydroxychloroquine?
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What is the typical medication administration for hydroxychloroquine?
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Interactions of hydroxychloroquine include antacids containing ________ or ________, hepatotoxic drugs, and alcohol.
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What are the expected evaluations of medication effectiveness for hydroxychloroquine?
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Study Notes
Hydroxychloroquine Overview
- Classified as an anti-rheumatic drug and antimalarial agent.
- Functions as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD).
Mechanism of Action
- Exact mechanism of action is unknown.
Therapeutic Uses
- Administered for prophylaxis and treatment of malaria.
- Alleviates severe inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Complications
- Potential side effects include:
- Anorexia
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Hair loss
- Mood and mental changes
- Blurred vision and photophobia
- Diminished reading ability
- Black-out areas in the visual field
Contraindications
- Not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to hydroxychloroquine.
- Avoid in patients with retinal or visual field changes related to quinoline drugs.
Nursing Interventions
- Assess deep tendon reflexes to identify muscle weakness.
- Schedule eye examinations every six months.
- Evaluate pain, inflammation, and range of motion in RA patients.
- Monitor for signs and symptoms in patients with SLE or malaria.
- Regularly check CBC and platelet count during treatment.
- Administer medication with milk or meals to reduce gastrointestinal distress.
- Initiate therapy two weeks before potential malaria exposure.
- Provide patient and family education regarding the medication.
Client Education
- Instruct on following medication as prescribed and completing the treatment course.
- Advise avoiding alcohol consumption.
- Keep medication away from children due to toxicity.
- Encourage taking medication with milk to avoid GI upset.
- Inform healthcare provider of any adverse effects.
- Female patients should notify HCP if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Discuss methods to minimize mosquito exposure.
- Emphasize the importance of periodic eye exams.
Medication Administration
- Initial dosage typically ranges from 400-600 mg/day for 4-12 weeks, followed by 200-400 mg once daily.
Drug Interactions
- Notable interactions include:
- Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
- Hepatotoxic drugs
- Alcohol
- Digoxin
- Rabies vaccine
- Herbal and food interactions are currently unknown.
Evaluation of Effectiveness
- Expectation of prevention or resolution of malaria.
- Improvement in symptoms associated with RA.
- Reduction in symptoms related to SLE.
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Description
This quiz explores the overview, mechanism, and therapeutic uses of hydroxychloroquine, an important drug in treating malaria and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, it covers potential complications, contraindications, and essential nursing interventions related to its use.
