Rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus have been extensively treated using the antimalarial drug’s chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine. The exact mechanism of action of hydroxychloroquine is unknown. The clinical applications and side effects of both pharmaceutical drugs are similar, despite differences in their therapeutic dosage and toxicity. Chloroquine retinopathy, also known as retinal toxicity, is one of the most serious adverse effects and needs to be closely watched.
While hydroxychloroquine, a less toxic metabolite of chloroquine, is an effective treatment for rheumatic illnesses such juvenile idiopathic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, chloroquine is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat malaria and amebiasis.
Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have direct effects on the immune system, but they also lower atherosclerosis rates, alleviate hyperglycemia, and shield patients with rheumatoid inflammatory illnesses from infections. It is currently unknown what the underlying mechanism of action is for these clinical outcomes.
Chloroquine
A prescription drug called chloroquine is used to treat malaria brought on by insect bites. It is a member of the antimalarial medication class. Although the exact mode of action of chloroquine is unknown, it is thought to be an effective substitute for killing parasites in the body. The United States Centers for Disease Control offer up-to-date recommendations for treating and preventing malaria in various global locations. It is crucial that you and your doctors discuss the most recent information as a result. Treatment for infections brought on by an alternative kind of parasite can also be achieved using chloroquine. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of taking the medication with your physician.
Mosquitoes carrying the malaria virus transmit the deadly disease to people. Along with other medications, chloroquine should be administered under physician supervision to treat lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. These two conditions are within the medication class of autoimmune disorders. In these situations, your immune system unintentionally targets itself. In the end, this causes discomfort and harm to certain body components. particular medical problems should not use particular items, and certain medications should only be used with extreme caution. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, it’s crucial that your doctor knows about them before you start taking chloroquine:
- heart diseases, such as an irregular heartbeat or other heart complication
- a skin condition called psoriasis
- ever had epilepsy
- problems associated with the stomach and intestines
- muscle weakness called myasthenia gravis
- kidney problems or any problems with the way your liver works
- pregnant or breastfeeding
- a blood disorder called porphyria or glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
- taking other drugs. These may include any medications that you purchase with prescription as well as herbal medicines.
- ever had an allergic reaction to chloroquine
It’s possible that your doctor would advise you to take the first dose of chloroquine one week before to traveling to a malaria-prone area. In this manner, you’ll have quality medication in your system to provide you with the necessary defense. It is imperative that you take this antimalarial medication for the duration of your visit and for an additional four weeks after you depart the region. Adhere precisely to your doctor’s prescription for the medications. An adult typically takes two tablets on the same day of the week once a week. As the child’s dosage varies based on age and weight, talk to your doctor about whether the antimalarial medication is appropriate for them. You ought to finish the entire prescribed course of action. Thus, you ought to be taking four weeks following the conclusion of your appointment, chloroquine. While chloroquine can help lower the risk of malaria if administered under appropriate medical direction, it’s still necessary to take preventative measures. Apply a mosquito repellent spray to your clothing that works well. Put clothes on the bear regions of your body. This is particularly crucial if you’re outside after dusk.
hydroxychloroquine
A drug called hydroxychloroquine is prescribed to treat malaria, lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Regarding hydroxychloroquine’s mechanism of action in rheumatoid arthritis, medical professionals are unsure. It’s thought that the medication modifies the messages that your immune cells deliver. Experts say the medication also inhibits some of the inflammatory processes. This drug should be taken with a glass of water. Observe the instructions on your prescription. Take the medication after eating and swallow it with water. After taking the medication for four hours, avoid taking antacids. Individuals who have an allergy to hydroxychloroquine or retinal or visual field abnormalities should not use this medication.
Hydroxychloroquine may not pose a major risk to your health, but like other medication, it may have side effects. The majority of them are minor and may improve over time. The most typical ones include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If your diabetes is not properly managed, you may experience low blood sugar. Doctors are typically advised to take hydroxychloroquine with food in this situation. Muscle weakness, hair changes, skin darkening, itching, mood swings, and ringing in the ears are some more symptoms that may appear.
In summary
For many years, autoimmune diseases including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis have been treated using the medications chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, which are used to treat malaria. A disease-modifying anti-rheumatoid medication called hydroxychloroquine can significantly lessen arthritic pain and swelling while also lowering the chance of long-term impairment. It is yet unknown how hydroxychloroquine works in rheumatoid arthritis. The medication is thought to obstruct immune system cell communication, whereas chloroquine acts by eliminating internal parasites.
