The primary downside of taking hydroxychloroquine is that its effectiveness for COVID-19 has not yet been sufficiently established, and its potential side effects have the potential to be serious. People should take the drug only under the supervision of a healthcare provider, and regular monitoring is essential to ensure safety.
The most common side effects of hydroxychloroquine are nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, itching, rash, and changes in hair or skin color. These side effects usually go away after a few weeks of reducing the dosage.
People with pre-existing conditions, such as heart disease and liver disease, should use the drug with caution due to the risk of further complicating their health. In the elderly, hydroxychloroquine may worsen existing kidney and liver problems.
Severe side effects, such as abnormal heart rhythms, liver failure, or mental health changes, are rare but can occur. People must also be aware of potential interactions with other medications they may be taking, which could lead to unexpected reactions.
Overall, hydroxychloroquine is a promising option for treating COVID-19, but it is important to weigh the benefits and risks when considering taking it. A healthcare provider should be consulted to assess the best treatment option based on individual needs.
Table of Contents
Is hydroxychloroquine hard on your body?
No, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is generally considered to be safe, especially when taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Studies have shown that HCQ is well tolerated, with few side effects.
It is a relatively mild drug with low toxicity. In fact, HCQ has been used in the United States since 1955 with a good track record of safety and effectiveness. In general, most people do not experience significant side effects when taking HCQ, though some may experience mild ones such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and abdominal pain.
More serious side effects are rare, but can include vision problems and muscle weakness. It is important to be aware of these potential side effects, however, and to talk to a healthcare professional if any concerns arise.
How long can you stay on hydroxychloroquine?
The length of time a person should be on hydroxychloroquine varies depending on their medical condition and the indication of use. Generally speaking, treatment courses with hydroxychloroquine are typically 4-12 weeks long, depending on the condition being treated.
For example, hydroxychloroquine may be prescribed for up to 3 months when used to treat rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. On the other hand, it may be prescribed to prevent or treat malaria for a course of 4 weeks.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for taking hydroxychloroquine as not following their instructions may lead to negative side effects or a decrease in the medication’s effectiveness.
Additionally, it’s important to routinely follow up with your doctor to monitor the progress of your treatment and adjust any medications accordingly if needed.
Can you take Plaquenil forever?
Yes, it is possible to take Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) for an extended period of time. Plaquenil is an anti-malarial drug that is also used to treat certain autoimmune conditions, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
It has been used for many years for these and other conditions, and generally has a low risk of serious side effects. However, like any medication, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of long-term use with your doctor and to have regular check-ups to monitor for potential problems.
How long does it take for hydroxychloroquine to reduce inflammation?
The exact time it takes for hydroxychloroquine to reduce inflammation varies depending on an individual’s specific medical situation and response to the drug. Generally speaking, however, it usually takes about 4-6 weeks for the drug to make a noticeable impact on the individual’s inflammation.
It is important to note, however, that it can take up to 12 weeks or longer before the maximum benefits of the medication are seen. It is important to be consistent with the medication, taking it as prescribed and to discuss any changes with a doctor.
In some cases, the dosage may be increased or adjusted depending on the person’s response, to help ensure the most successful outcome.
Should I take hydroxychloroquine at night or in the morning?
The answer to this question largely depends on individual preference. Since hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malarial drug, its effects may vary in different people. As such, it is best to consult a medical professional to decide if and when to take hydroxychloroquine.
Generally speaking, many people take hydroxychloroquine at night as the drug can be used as a sleep aid. However, some people may report feeling more lively and active if they take this medication in the morning as opposed to the night.
Ultimately, it is recommended that a doctor’s advice should be followed when deciding when to take hydroxychloroquine.
Can you take hydroxychloroquine and Tylenol at the same time?
Yes, you can take hydroxychloroquine and Tylenol at the same time. Both medications are generally considered safe to take together, however it is important to check with your doctor or healthcare professional before combining any medications, even those that are considered safe.
You should also discuss with your doctor any potential interactions between the medications you are taking. While hydroxychloroquine is sometimes used to treat certain viral infections such as malaria, it is also sometimes used to treat certain autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Tylenol is an analgesic and can be used as a treatment for the pain associated with these conditions. However, it is important to note that taking hydroxychloroquine and Tylenol together may increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.
It is also important to discuss with your doctor the potential for an interaction between hydroxychloroquine and Tylenol as they can increase the effects of one another.
Should hydroxychloroquine be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
The best way to take hydroxychloroquine is exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Generally, hydroxychloroquine should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. However, if nausea or upset stomach occurs, talk to your doctor about taking it with food or milk.
If your doctor has prescribed you hydroxychloroquine on an empty stomach, take it that way. Do not take it differently than instructed by your doctor.
Can you be on hydroxychloroquine long-term?
Yes, it is possible to stay on hydroxychloroquine for a long period of time, depending on the reason for its use. Hydroxychloroquine has been commonly prescribed for many years as a medication for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, conditions that often require long-term treatment.
For other conditions, the drug might be prescribed for short-term use, such as a month at a time. In cases of Covid-19, while there is some evidence that hydroxychloroquine might be helpful, there is little research on the long-term safety or effectiveness of the drug.
As a result, it is not normally recommended as a long-term medication for this condition, but your doctor can provide you with information relevant to your particular case.
Does taking hydroxychloroquine make you immunocompromised?
No, taking hydroxychloroquine does not make you immunocompromised. Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial medication used to treat and prevent certain types of malaria. It is also sometimes used to treat arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases.
It works by altering the function of the immune system, which helps to reduce inflammation or swelling. However, this does not make the person taking it immunocompromised. Immunocompromised people have weakened immune systems, which makes them more likely to get infections and make it harder for them to fight off illnesses.
Hydroxychloroquine does not produce this effect and is safe to take in recommended doses.
