Hydroxychloroquine

Abstract

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and its related drug, chloroquine, have been under use for malaria for the past 75 years. Its use for malaria, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved. These drugs have immunomodulatory and antiviral actions. More and more indications for this drug are being explored. These drugs are still under study as possible treatments for coronavirus disease 2019 but at present FDA has revoked its emergency use authorization for these two drugs. However, in many other indications, HCQ is a valuable drug but monitoring for adverse effects is mandatory.