Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial & DMARD (disease modifying antirheumatic drug). It is currently being discussed as an experimental prophylaxis and treatment for COVID-19, although evidence is extremely limited. Hydroxychloroquine has a number of CNS side effects (e.g. headache, dizziness, tinnitus) and may cause vivid dreams and insomnia. It also can cause rash & itchiness, alopecia and skin pigmentation changes. Hydroxychloroquine should be taken with food to minimize GI effects (nausea & vomiting; abdominal pain). Serious side effects of hydroxychloroquine include retinopathy and immunosuppression. Eye exams should routinely be performed to monitor for retinal toxicity. Hydroxychloroquine has a number of serious drug interactions, including beta blockers (increased BB toxicity), antihyperglycemics and insulin (increased hypoglycemia), QTc prolongation with concomitant use of QTc prolonging drugs (e.g. azithromycin) and further immunosuppression with concomitant immunosuppressents. COVID-19 NOTE: be cautious filling prescriptions for hydroxychloroquine, especially prescribers self-prescribing for themselves and their family. Ensure your patients who require this medication have stock. Miriam Ahmed, PharmD @rxnotes https://www.instagram.com/rxnotes/ #Hydroxychloroquine #HCQ #Pharmacology #SideEffects #AdverseEffects
