Hydroxychloroquine : Is it effective against COVID-19?

Hydroxychloroquine is a quinolone medicine. It is having the chemical formula as C18H26CIN3O. However, it is also known as 4-amino quinoline. Primarily, this drug has wide used to prevent Malaria. In addition, some other uses are also there, those are mentioned below.

Classification

Hydroxychloroquine is the drug which belongs to the class DMARDs.   disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. It is sold under the name of Plaquenil. Its active form is hydroxychloroquine sulfate.

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Hydroxychloroquine for treating COVID-19

It is true that this drug is having effects on immunity. Though right now health care practitioners are using it. For instance, treating the symptoms of Covid-19. This is under the supervision of health care practitioners. However, the most important thing here to remember is, FDA did not give approval to it for the treatment of Coronavirus. FDA says that risk is higher than benefits. Above all, the side effects are more threatening.

Uses

Hydroxychloroquine has a major use in malaria. However, It is also beneficial in treating some autoimmune diseases. Such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and also treat porphyria Tarda.

Mechanism of action

Hydroxychloroquine inhibits lysosomal activity. In addition, It binds with DNA which is involved in protein synthesis. After that, RNA & DNA polymerase is also inhibited by it or chloroquine. This results, into the prevention of Malaria. Moreover, Hydroxychloroquine shows inhibition towards prostaglandin formation. Above all, it also antagonises histamine and serotonin. This mechanism of action shows anti-inflammatory effects.

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ADME

It has a 100% absorption rate (almost completely). Firstly, There are several binding sites where it shows accumulation. Those are heart, kidneys, brain liver and cells that contain melanin. Secondly, The metabolism of hydroxychloroquine takes place in Liver. Thirdly, The excretion of the metabolised drug is through the urinary pathway. Whereas, the part remained unabsorbed excretes through faeces.

Hydroxychloroquine Side effects

• Change in vision
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Muscle weakness
• Fewer rhythmic heart problem
• Severe hypotension

Precautions

1. Use cautiously in breastfeeding mothers, with special consultation from doctor.
2. This drug can be very toxic For Children. Dose and the term should cautiously watch out.

Contraindications

1. In the patients who shows hypersensitivity towards the drug.
2. In porphyria or in patients who report any retinal or visual changes.
3. Patients who do have some blood disorders.
4. If a person is not fit neurologically.
5. Patients who are suffering from gastrointestinal disorders.

Hydroxychloroquine Interactions

There are two types of interactions in relation to Hydroxychloroquine:-

Drug-Drug interactions-

1. Proper monitoring has to be there on the patient for digitalis toxicity if using digoxin too.
2. Chemicals like magnesium trisilicate and Kaolin decreases the absorption of Hydroxychloroquine.

Drug- body interactions-

1. Sun exposure during medication may cause dermatitis.
2. In addition, Avoid Alcohol consumption. It may cause Gastrointestinal irritability.

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Note:-

In conclusion, all drugs have some of the side effects. This can be harmful. However, consumption should be in assistance of a registered health care practitioner.

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