COVID-19: Is Hydroxychloroquine (HCQS) 200 mg the
Answer?
Some physicians believe that the use of Hydroxychloroquine
(HCQS) 200 mg in combination with other oral antimalarial drugs may be
effective in preventing the onset of certain forms of malaria and other
infections such as leishmaniasis, giardiasis, trypanosomiasis, and
toxoplasmosis. Early studies are promising but further research will be
necessary to confirm these preliminary findings.
History of HCQS
HCQS was first synthesized in 1946 and has been used for
malaria, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, there has been much
interest in its potential as a treatment for COVID-19. A small study in China
found that HCQS may be effective in preventing or treating the virus, but
larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
While HCQS appears to be safe for most people, there are
some potential side effects, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and
diarrhea. If you take HCQS, be sure to monitor yourself for any of these side
effects.
The Basics of HCQS
Hydroxychloroquine sulfate is a white, crystalline powder
that is freely soluble in water. Its chemical name is
7-chloro-4-(4-diethylamino-1-methylbutylamino) quinoline sulfate, and its
structural formula is C18H26ClN3O.S. HCQS is used for the treatment of malaria,
lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
How It's Used (three sentences): HCQS is usually taken with
food or milk to prevent stomach upset. The usual adult dose for treating
malaria is 800 mg on the first day of treatment followed by 400 mg once a day
for 8 to 21 days.
How HCQS Works?
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQS) is an inexpensive, readily
available drug that has been used for more than 70 years. It is often used in
the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
HCQS also has antiviral and antimalarial properties. Some scientists believe
that HCQS may also be effective in treating COVID-19.
FDA Approved Uses for HCQS
The FDA has approved hydroxychloroquine sulfate (HQS) as an
antimalarial drug for the treatment of COVID-19. However, its use for this
purpose is still under investigation and it is not yet known if it is safe or
effective for treating COVID-19.
The FDA has also approved HCQS for the treatment of lupus
and rheumatoid arthritis. It is thought to work by helping to prevent the body
from making inflammatory substances.
If you are considering taking HCQS for your COVID-19
symptoms, please talk to your doctor first to weigh the risks and benefits.
Side Effects Of HCQS
While HCQS has been shown to be effective in treating
COVID-19, there are also potential side effects that have been reported. These
include but are not limited to gastrointestinal issues, headache, dizziness,
and irregular heartbeat. In rare cases, HCQS has also been linked to serious
heart problems and death. If you are considering taking HCQS for COVID-19,
please consult with your doctor first to weigh the risks and benefits.
Banned Uses For HCQS
Hydroxychloroquine sulfate (HCQS) is an antimalarial
medication that is also used to treat autoimmune diseases like lupus and
rheumatoid arthritis. It's sometimes used off-label as a treatment for
COVID-19, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently issued a
warning against its use for this purpose. HCQS can cause serious side effects,
including heart rhythm problems, low blood pressure, and liver damage. It
should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Precautions To Follow When Taking HCQS
When taking HCQS, it is important to follow all dosing
instructions carefully. This medication can be taken with or without food. If
you have any questions about how to take HCQS, be sure to ask your doctor or
pharmacist. Some common side effects of HCQS include headache, diarrhea, and
upset stomach. If you experience any severe side effects, stop taking the
medication and call your doctor immediately.