Hydroxychloroquine 200mg Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Blurred vision or any changes in eyesight
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat
- Severe skin rash with blistering or peeling
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
- Signs of low blood sugar: shakiness, sweating, confusion
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is arichlor 200mg tablet used for?
Hydroxychloroquine 200mg tablet is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and to prevent and treat malaria. It works by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. It requires regular monitoring for eye and heart side effects.
- Generic Name: Hydroxychloroquine (200mg)
- Manufacturer: Arlak Biotech Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 arichlor 200mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा हाइड्रॉक्सीक्लोरोक्वीन 200mg युक्त है और मुख्य रूप से रूमेटॉयड आर्थराइटिस, ल्यूपस, और मलेरिया के इलाज में उपयोग की जाती है। यह शरीर की प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को नियंत्रित करके सूजन और दर्द को कम करती है। यह दवा धीरे-धीरे काम करती है और इसका पूरा असर होने में कई सप्ताह लग सकते हैं। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, पेट दर्द, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और त्वचा पर दाने शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में आंखों की रोशनी पर असर, दिल की समस्या, और खून की बीमारियां हो सकती हैं। नियमित जांच कराते रहें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे भोजन के साथ लेने से पेट की परेशानी कम हो सकती है। आंखों की नियमित जांच कराएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। शराब का सेवन न करें। दवा को बंद करने से पहले डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।
💊 arichlor 200mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Rheumatoid arthritis","description":"Used as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug to reduce joint pain, inflammation" class="semantic-link" title="Medicines for swelling">swelling, and progression of joint damage.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Systemic lupus erythematosus","description":"Helps control skin rash, joint pain, fatigue, and other symptoms, and reduces flare frequency.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Malaria","description":"Used for treatment and prevention of malaria caused by susceptible strains of Plasmodium species.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Sjögren's syndrome","description":"May help relieve dry eyes, dry mouth, joint pain, and fatigue in some patients.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Discoid lupus erythematosus","description":"Effective for skin lesions and photosensitivity associated with discoid lupus.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Porphyria cutanea tarda","description":"Sometimes used off-label to reduce skin blistering and liver enzyme abnormalities.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sarcoidosis","description":"May be used off-label for skin and joint involvement, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Q fever","description":"Occasionally used as part of combination therapy for chronic Q fever.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Rheumatoid arthritis
Also treats: Systemic lupus erythematosus, Malaria, Sjögren's syndrome, Discoid lupus erythematosus
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Hydroxychloroquine (200mg) |
| Brand Name | arichlor 200mg tablet |
| Manufacturer | Arlak Biotech Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | PAIN ANALGESICS |
| Action Class | Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatoid Drugs (DMARDs)- Non biologics |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Hydroxychloroquine is included in WHO essential medicines list for malaria and autoimmune conditions. Specific recommendations vary by region and condition. |
| ICMR Guideline | ICMR guidelines recommend hydroxychloroquine for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus as a DMARD, with regular monitoring. For malaria, it is used in areas with chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium vivax. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Hydroxychloroquine is a weak base that accumulates in lysosomes and raises their pH. This interferes with antigen processing and presentation, thereby dampening T-cell activation and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6. It also inhibits toll-like receptor signaling, which is involved in autoimmune responses. In malaria, it concentrates in the food vacuole of the parasite and prevents the polymerization of toxic heme into hemozoin, leading to parasite death. Additionally, it has mild immunomodulatory effects on B cells and can reduce the formation of autoantibodies.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take arichlor 200mg tablet
Strength: 200mg immediate-release tablet
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For rheumatoid arthritis, a typical starting dose is 400-600 mg daily, which may be reduced to 200-400 mg daily for maintenance. For lupus, 200-400 mg daily is common. For malaria treatment, doses vary by region and strain. Always follow your doctor's prescription exactly. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects, especially retinopathy and cardiac effects. Dose should be individualized by a clinician, and regular monitoring is essential. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment may be necessary in renal impairment. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be needed. Consult your doctor. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose varies by indication and is determined by your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of arichlor 200mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Digoxin | Major | |
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Insulin | Major | |
| Amiodarone | Major | |
| Antacids | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Ampicillin | Minor | |
| Neostigmine | Minor | |
| Warfarin | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Digoxin
- Methotrexate
- Antidiabetic drugs (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas)
- QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Antacids
- Cimetidine
- Rifampicin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity and stomach bleeding. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to hydroxychloroquine or any component of the formulation","Pre-existing retinopathy or visual field changes","Use in children for long-term treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (except under specialist care)","Concurrent use with drugs that prolong QT interval (relative)","Severe renal impairment (relative)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Perform baseline and periodic eye examinations to detect retinopathy early.","Use with caution in patients with liver disease, alcoholism, or concurrent hepatotoxic drugs.","May cause hypoglycemia; monitor blood glucose in diabetics.","May prolong QT interval; use caution in patients with cardiac disease or electrolyte imbalances.","Avoid in patients with porphyria or psoriasis as it may exacerbate these conditions.","Do not use for long-term treatment of children unless under specialist supervision.","May impair mental alertness; avoid driving if affected."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Hydroxychloroquine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh benefits and risks.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can be life-threatening, causing cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, seizures, and respiratory depression. Seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, gastric lavage, and management of arrhythmias. There is no specific antidote.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises otherwise. Swallow it whole with a glass of water. You may take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition. Keep all scheduled appointments for eye exams, blood tests, and heart checks. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of liver problems. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or have blurred vision. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are at higher risk of retinopathy and cardiac side effects. Regular monitoring is essential. Dose may need adjustment based on kidney function.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor. Hydroxychloroquine may be continued if benefits outweigh risks. Use effective contraception if not planning pregnancy.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may affect wound healing and increase risk of bleeding. Your doctor may advise temporary discontinuation.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase risk of bleeding and infection. Your dentist may recommend antibiotic prophylaxis for certain procedures.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Moderate exercise is encouraged, but avoid high-impact activities that stress joints. If you experience dizziness or muscle weakness, consult your doctor before continuing.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal activities, but fatigue and joint pain may require adjustments.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects like vision changes, chest pain, or severe rash, seek immediate medical attention and follow your doctor's advice on whether to stop.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use requires regular monitoring for retinopathy, cardiomyopathy, and blood disorders. The risk of eye damage increases with duration and cumulative dose. Annual eye exams are recommended after 5 years of use. Liver and kidney function should be checked periodically. Do not stop without medical advice.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve joint function.
Evidence: Well-establishedAnti-inflammatory diet may help reduce symptoms.
Evidence: Moderate💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Hydroxychloroquine may impair immune response to vaccines. Consult your doctor about timing of vaccinations, especially live vaccines.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. For air travel, keep it in your carry-on luggage. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Store at room temperature and avoid extreme heat or cold. Check customs regulations for restricted medicines in your destination country.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: For autoimmune conditions, it may take 4-12 weeks to see improvement, with full effects in up to 6 months. For malaria, it works within hours to days.
A: Consult your doctor. It may be used if clearly needed, but risks and benefits must be weighed.
A: Avoid alcohol, grapefruit, and antacids within 4 hours of dosing. Also avoid driving if you feel dizzy.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for arichlor 200mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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kaiquin 200mg tabletKaizen Research Labs India Pvt Ltd ₹47.81 46.9% CHEAPER
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hq 200mg tabletVasu Organics Pvt Ltd ₹51.56 42.7% CHEAPER
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coviq tabletZydus Cadila ₹52.43 41.7% CHEAPER
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rumawill 200mg tabletMediwill Life Sciences ₹52.50 41.7% CHEAPER
-
zhquine 200mg tabletAmbience Pharma ₹52.78 41.4% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Hydroxychloroquine is a painkiller.
Fact: It is not a painkiller; it works slowly to modify the disease process and reduce inflammation. - Myth: Hydroxychloroquine is safe for everyone.
Fact: It can cause serious side effects and is not suitable for people with certain eye, heart, or blood conditions. - Myth: You can stop hydroxychloroquine once you feel better.
Fact: Stopping suddenly can cause flare-ups. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Hydroxychloroquine sulfate 200mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Alaquin 200mg tablet
- HCQS 200mg tablet
- Zy-Q 200mg tablet
- Hydroxychloroquine 200mg tablet (various manufacturers)