coviq tablet - Hydroxychloroquine (200mg) medicine

Hydroxychloroquine 200mg Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 16, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus; moderate for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 16, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Sudden vision changes, such as blurred vision, difficulty reading, or seeing flashing lights.
  • Severe skin rash with blisters, peeling, or sores in the mouth.
  • Irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
  • Severe dizziness or fainting.
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection like fever and sore throat.
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
  • Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is coviq tablet used for?

This medicine contains hydroxychloroquine 200 mg, an antimalarial and DMARD used to treat malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. It works by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system. It requires regular eye exams and should be taken as prescribed.

  • Generic Name: Hydroxychloroquine
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 coviq tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा हाइड्रॉक्सीक्लोरोक्वीन 200 मिलीग्राम की गोली है, जिसका उपयोग मलेरिया के इलाज और रोकथाम के लिए किया जाता है। इसके अलावा, यह रूमेटॉयड आर्थराइटिस, सिस्टमिक ल्यूपस एरिथेमेटोसस और स्जोग्रेन सिंड्रोम जैसी ऑटोइम्यून बीमारियों में भी प्रभावी है। यह दवा शरीर की प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को संतुलित करने और सूजन को कम करने में मदद करती है। यह दवा धीरे-धीरे काम करती है और इसका पूरा असर दिखने में कई हफ्ते लग सकते हैं। इसका सेवन डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, दस्त, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और त्वचा पर दाने शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में दृष्टि में बदलाव, मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी, अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, और खून की कमी शामिल हैं। अगर आपको आंखों में कोई भी बदलाव दिखे, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें। लंबे समय तक इस दवा का सेवन करने पर आंखों की जांच नियमित रूप से करानी चाहिए।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को शुरू करने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी आंखों, लीवर, किडनी और खून से जुड़ी किसी भी बीमारी के बारे में बताएं। इस दवा को लेते समय शराब का सेवन न करें। गाड़ी चलाते समय या मशीन चलाते समय सावधानी बरतें क्योंकि इससे चक्कर आ सकते हैं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। दवा को बंद करने से पहले डॉक्टर से जरूर पूछें। दवा को ठंडी और सूखी जगह पर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 coviq tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Malaria","description":"Used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria and for prophylaxis in travelers to endemic areas.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Rheumatoid arthritis","description":"Helps reduce joint pain, inflammation" class="semantic-link" title="Medicines for swelling">swelling, and stiffness, and slows joint damage.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Systemic lupus erythematosus","description":"Reduces flares, skin rash, joint pain, and fatigue; also lowers the risk of organ damage.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Sjögren's syndrome","description":"May improve dryness, joint pain, and fatigue in some patients.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Porphyria cutanea tarda","description":"Can help reduce skin blistering and liver enzyme abnormalities.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Lichen planopilaris","description":"Sometimes used to treat this inflammatory scalp condition.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sarcoidosis","description":"May be used to manage skin and joint symptoms.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic urticaria","description":"Occasionally prescribed when antihistamines fail.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Malaria

Also treats: Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Hydroxychloroquine
Brand NameAuto Q 200mg Tablet
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassPAIN ANALGESICS
Action ClassDisease Modifying Anti-Rheumatoid Drugs (DMARDs)- Non biologics
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in a tightly closed container, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Do not refrigerate unless specified by the manufacturer.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization recommends hydroxychloroquine as an option for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in areas where the parasite is susceptible. It is also listed as an essential medicine for autoimmune conditions. However, resistance has developed in some regions, so it is not used as first-line in many areas.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) includes hydroxychloroquine in its guidelines for the management of systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. It is also recommended for malaria prophylaxis in specific situations. Doses and monitoring should follow ICMR recommendations.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food or a glass of milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Have a baseline eye examination before starting and then every 6 to 12 months.
3
Do not stop this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may cause a flare-up.
4
Inform your doctor if you experience any vision changes, such as blurred vision or seeing flashing lights.
5
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of liver problems.
6
Use effective contraception if you are of childbearing age and discuss pregnancy plans with your doctor.
7
Report any unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor promptly.
8
Keep all follow-up appointments for blood tests and eye exams.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Fever and chills
This medicine is used to treat malaria, which causes fever and chills.
Likely Use
✅
Joint pain and swelling
This medicine is used for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Likely Use
✅
Skin rash
This medicine can help with skin rash in lupus.
Likely Use
❌
Headache
This medicine is not a primary headache treatment.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The bioavailability is approximately 74% to 89%. Food does not significantly affect the extent of absorption, but taking it with food can reduce stomach upset. Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1 to 4 hours after a single dose.
DistributionHydroxychloroquine is widely distributed throughout the body, with a large volume of distribution (approximately 5,000 to 10,000 liters). It accumulates in tissues such as the liver, spleen, kidney, lung, and melanin-containing tissues like the eyes and skin. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk in small amounts.
Protein BindingApproximately 45% to 55% of hydroxychloroquine is bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismThis medicine is partially metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP2D6, CYP3A4, and CYP2C8. The main metabolites are desethylhydroxychloroquine and desethylchloroquine, which retain some activity.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of hydroxychloroquine is long and variable, ranging from 20 to 60 days. This long half-life allows for once-daily dosing and means that the medicine stays in the body for weeks after stopping.
ExcretionHydroxychloroquine is excreted primarily in the urine, with about 15% to 25% of the dose excreted unchanged. It is also excreted in bile and feces. Renal impairment can prolong the elimination half-life and increase the risk of toxicity.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of hydroxychloroquine is approximately 74% to 89%.
Onset of ActionFor malaria treatment, the onset of action is within hours to a day. For autoimmune conditions, the full therapeutic effect may take 4 to 12 weeks to become apparent.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached within 1 to 4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is prolonged due to the long half-life. For malaria prophylaxis, the effect lasts for about a week after stopping. For autoimmune diseases, the effects persist for weeks to months after discontinuation.

How It Works

Hydroxychloroquine works by interfering with the function of lysosomes in cells, which are small sacs that digest waste. It raises the pH inside these sacs, making them less acidic. This change reduces the activity of certain enzymes and immune processes. In malaria, the medicine gets concentrated in the parasite's food vacuole and prevents the breakdown of hemoglobin, leading to a buildup of toxic heme that kills the parasite. In autoimmune diseases, it reduces the presentation of self-antigens to immune cells, decreases the production of inflammatory cytokines, and dampens the overactive immune response. It also has mild anti-inflammatory effects by stabilizing cell membranes and reducing the release of inflammatory substances. Additionally, it can block toll-like receptors, which are involved in sensing foreign and self-nucleic acids, thereby reducing interferon production. Overall, this medicine helps to modulate the immune system rather than suppress it completely.

Mechanism Steps

1
Entry into cells: This medicine enters cells and becomes trapped in acidic compartments such as lysosomes.
2
Alkalinization of lysosomes: It raises the pH inside lysosomes, reducing their acidity and impairing their function.
3
Inhibition of antigen presentation: This leads to reduced presentation of self-antigens to T cells, dampening the autoimmune response.
4
Reduction of cytokine production: It decreases the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha.
5
Inhibition of toll-like receptors: It blocks toll-like receptors 7 and 9, reducing interferon production and further modulating immunity.
6
Antimalarial action: In malaria, it prevents the parasite from detoxifying heme, leading to parasite death.

💡 How to Take coviq tablet

Strength: Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg immediate-release tablet.

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
4Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed.
5Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
6If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.
7Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For malaria treatment, a common regimen is an initial dose followed by additional doses over 2 days. For malaria prophylaxis, it is usually taken once weekly starting 1-2 weeks before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after leaving the area. For rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, the usual starting dose is 200 mg once or twice daily, with maintenance doses adjusted according to response. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially dizziness and visual changes. Dose should be individualized by a clinician, and renal function should be monitored. Regular eye exams are particularly important.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. Monitor renal function regularly.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with hepatic impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. Monitor liver function regularly.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed 400 mg of hydroxychloroquine per day, unless otherwise directed by a specialist. Doses above this increase the risk of toxicity.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Alcohol
Avoid
May increase risk of liver toxicity.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of coviq tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Stomach cramps (Common (5-10%))
Take with a meal. Avoid spicy foods. Consult doctor if severe.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, seek medical advice.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Skin rash (Common (5-10%))
If rash is mild, monitor. If it spreads or is accompanied by fever, seek medical attention.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Retinopathy (Rare (<0.1%) with long-term use)
Report any vision changes immediately. Regular eye exams are essential.
Cardiomyopathy (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate care if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat.
Severe hypoglycemia (Rare (<0.1%))
Monitor blood sugar if diabetic. Report symptoms like shakiness, sweating, confusion.
Bone marrow suppression (Rare (<0.1%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection. Blood tests may be needed.
Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek emergency care if you develop a painful rash, blisters, or peeling skin.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hair loss
Usually reversible. Discuss with your doctor if concerned.
Bleaching of hair
No action needed unless bothersome. It is reversible.
Mood changes
Report to your doctor if you feel depressed or anxious.
Tinnitus
Consult your doctor if it persists.

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
Grapefruit Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Digoxin
  • Methotrexate
  • Antidiabetics (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas)
  • QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antacids
  • Cimetidine
  • Rifampicin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase the risk of liver problems and may worsen stomach side effects. It can also increase drowsiness and dizziness. If you consume alcohol regularly, discuss with your doctor.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to hydroxychloroquine or 4-aminoquinoline derivatives","Pre-existing retinopathy or visual field changes","Use in children for long-term treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (unless directed by specialist)","Concurrent use with other QT-prolonging drugs in patients with risk factors"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Perform baseline and periodic eye exams to detect retinopathy early.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.","May cause hypoglycemia; monitor blood sugar in diabetic patients.","May prolong QT interval; use with caution in patients with cardiac disease.","Avoid in patients with known G6PD deficiency due to risk of hemolysis.","Do not use for long-term treatment without regular monitoring.","May exacerbate psoriasis; use with caution.","Inform patients about the risk of dizziness and visual changes."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Hydroxychloroquine passes into breast milk in small amounts. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers it compatible with breastfeeding. However, because it can accumulate in breastfed infants, monitor for any signs of toxicity such as poor feeding or irritability. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of hydroxychloroquine can be life-threatening, causing severe hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory arrest. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, vasopressors, and mechanical ventilation. Hemodialysis is not effective. 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before starting this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any eye problems, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, or a history of psoriasis. You should have a baseline eye examination and then regular eye check-ups every 6 to 12 months, especially if you are on long-term therapy. Avoid taking this medicine if you are allergic to hydroxychloroquine or similar medicines. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. This medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol should be avoided as it may increase the risk of liver problems. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This medicine can pass into breast milk, but the amount is generally considered safe; however, consult your doctor. Keep all appointments for blood tests and eye exams. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may cause a flare-up of your condition. 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 retinal toxicity and should have regular eye exams. They may also be more prone to dizziness and falls. Dose adjustment may be needed based on renal function. Close monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor. This medicine is generally considered safe to continue during pregnancy for autoimmune conditions. It may also be used for malaria prophylaxis. Do not stop without medical advice.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may increase the risk of bleeding or affect wound healing. Inform your surgeon that you are taking it. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery, but only under medical guidance.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding during dental procedures. Your dentist may recommend precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
🥗
Regular low-impact exercise like swimming or walking.
😴
Practice good posture and ergonomics.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to support immune function.
🌞
Avoid smoking as it can worsen autoimmune conditions.
🚭
Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Avoid activities that require sharp vision or balance until you know how it affects you. If you experience muscle weakness, consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish and flaxseeds.
Reduce processed and high-sugar foods.
Stay well hydrated.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Limit alcohol intake.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important to assess your response before engaging in such activities. Most people can continue their normal work with minor adjustments. If you have a physically demanding job, discuss with your doctor.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause a flare-up of your condition. Your doctor may decide to stop if you develop serious side effects such as retinopathy, severe skin reactions, or cardiac issues. Regular monitoring will help determine if continuation is safe.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to retinal toxicity, which may be irreversible if not detected early. Regular eye examinations are crucial. It can also cause muscle weakness, hearing loss, and skin pigmentation changes. Blood disorders and liver toxicity are rare but possible. Monitoring with blood tests and eye exams is recommended. The benefits of long-term use for autoimmune conditions often outweigh the risks when properly monitored.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve joint function.

Evidence: Well-established
Dietary changes

Anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce symptoms in autoimmune conditions.

Evidence: Moderate
Stress management

Techniques like yoga and meditation can help manage stress and improve quality of life.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine is not known to interact with vaccines. However, if you are on immunosuppressive therapy, live vaccines may be contraindicated. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.

📦 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

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. If you are crossing time zones, adjust the timing of your doses gradually to maintain consistent intervals. For malaria prophylaxis, continue taking the medicine for the full duration as prescribed, even after leaving the endemic area. Store the medicine in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines in your destination country.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus
She was started on this medicine 200 mg twice daily. After 8 weeks, her joint pain and skin rash improved significantly. She experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided when she started taking it with breakfast. She has regular eye check-ups every 6 months and has had no vision problems.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and regular monitoring make this medicine safe and effective for lupus.
👤 A 50-year-old man with rheumatoid arthritis
He was prescribed this medicine 200 mg once daily in addition to methotrexate. His morning stiffness decreased over 3 months. He was advised to avoid alcohol and to have periodic blood tests. He reported no major side effects.
💡 Lesson: Combining this medicine with other DMARDs can improve outcomes, but monitoring is essential.
👤 A 28-year-old traveler to a malaria-endemic area
She took this medicine weekly for malaria prophylaxis, starting 2 weeks before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after return. She remained malaria-free and experienced only mild stomach upset, which she managed by taking it with food.
💡 Lesson: Adherence to the prophylactic schedule is crucial for preventing malaria.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: For malaria, it works within hours to a day. For autoimmune conditions, it may take 4 to 12 weeks to see full effect.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, taking it with food or milk can reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember if less than half the dosing interval has passed. Otherwise, skip it and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is it safe to take during pregnancy?

A: It is generally considered safe for autoimmune conditions, but consult your doctor for individualized advice.

Q: Does it affect vision?

A: Long-term use can rarely cause retinal damage. Regular eye exams are essential to detect any changes early.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Does it cause weight gain?
  • Can I take it if I have diabetes?

🔄 Substitutes for coviq tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Hydroxychloroquine is a cure for COVID-19.
    Fact: Hydroxychloroquine is not approved for COVID-19 and clinical trials have not shown benefit. It should only be used for approved indications.
  • Myth: Hydroxychloroquine is a painkiller.
    Fact: It is not a painkiller; it works slowly to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system.
  • Myth: You can stop taking hydroxychloroquine once you feel better.
    Fact: Stopping suddenly can cause a flare-up of your condition. Always consult your doctor before stopping.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Hydroxychloroquine sulfate 200 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Plaquenil
  • Zy-Q
  • HCQS

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Hydroxychloroquine","class":"Antimalarial/DMARD","main_uses":"Malaria, RA, lupus","key_side_effects":"Retinopathy, nausea, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Chloroquine","class":"Antimalarial","main_uses":"Malaria, RA","key_side_effects":"Retinopathy, itching, nausea"},{"medicine":"Methotrexate","class":"DMARD","main_uses":"RA, psoriasis, cancer","key_side_effects":"Liver toxicity, bone marrow suppression"}]

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