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Active ingredient

Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine, sometimes abbreviated HCQS, is a medicine used in the prevention and treatment of malaria caused by certain Plasmodium parasites, and in the long-term management of some autoimmune conditions. Its established uses in this second group include rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), where it is taken to help control the disease over time. It should be used only for these approved purposes, under the supervision of a doctor.

Reviewed by the Kam4eu Pharmacy Team on 21 June 2026 · Next review June 2027

Hydroxychloroquine medicines we deliver

Browse the full Antibiotics range

2 generic Hydroxychloroquine products — same molecule, different brands, formats and pack sizes.

How it works

Hydroxychloroquine has more than one type of action. As an antimalarial, it accumulates inside the malaria parasite and interferes with how the parasite processes substances within the red blood cell, which is harmful to the parasite. In autoimmune conditions, it is thought to work as an immunomodulator — gently dampening parts of the immune system that are overactive — which can help reduce inflammation, joint symptoms and skin involvement over a period of weeks to months.

How it is taken

Take hydroxychloroquine exactly as prescribed and read the patient information leaflet. It is usually taken as tablets with or after food, or with a glass of milk, to reduce stomach upset. When used for autoimmune conditions, it often needs to be taken regularly for several weeks before the full benefit is felt, so continue taking it even if you do not notice an immediate improvement. Do not change the dose or stop without advice.

Side effects

Common (usually mild and temporary):

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Diarrhoea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Skin rash or itching

Stop and seek medical help if you experience:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care
  • New or changing vision problems, blurred vision, difficulty seeing colours or reading — stop and contact your doctor urgently, as eye effects can occur with long-term use
  • Severe, blistering or peeling skin reactions
  • Fast, slow or irregular heartbeat, fainting, or palpitations
  • Signs of low blood sugar, severe muscle weakness, or unusual mood or mental changes

Safety & who should not take it

  • Use hydroxychloroquine only for its approved purposes — malaria and certain autoimmune conditions — and only as prescribed by a doctor.
  • Tell your doctor about any eye or retinal problems, heart conditions, liver or kidney problems, psoriasis, or a deficiency of the enzyme G6PD before starting.
  • Long-term use can affect the eyes, so attend any eye examinations your doctor arranges and report vision changes promptly.
  • Inform your doctor of all other medicines you take, as it can interact with several drugs, including some that affect heart rhythm.
  • If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor before taking it.
  • Keep hydroxychloroquine well out of the reach of children, as accidental overdose can be very dangerous.
  • Do not stop or change your treatment without medical advice, and return unused medicine to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Storage

Store in the original packaging below 25°C, away from heat, light and moisture, and very securely out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date, and return unused medicine to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Frequently asked questions

What is hydroxychloroquine used for?+

Its established uses are for preventing and treating certain types of malaria and for managing some autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It should be used only for these approved purposes under medical supervision.

Why does it take a while to work for arthritis or lupus?+

In autoimmune conditions it acts gradually on the immune system, so it can take several weeks of regular use before the full benefit is noticed. Keep taking it as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Why are eye check-ups recommended?+

Long-term use can occasionally affect the retina, so doctors arrange periodic eye examinations to monitor for this. Report any changes in your vision to your doctor promptly.

Important: This information is general and not a substitute for medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine and consult a doctor or pharmacist before use — especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medication.

Hydroxychloroquine health guides