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
- 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।
💊 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 Name | Auto Q 200mg Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Zydus Cadila |
| 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 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 Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | The 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 Guideline | The 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
🔍 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 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
💡 How to Take coviq tablet
Strength: Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg 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 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 Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly 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 Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. Monitor renal function regularly. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. Monitor liver function regularly. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The 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
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of coviq 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 | |
| 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
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
🏋️ 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
💼 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.
Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve joint function.
Evidence: Well-establishedAnti-inflammatory diet may help reduce symptoms in autoimmune conditions.
Evidence: ModerateTechniques 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.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: For malaria, it works within hours to a day. For autoimmune conditions, it may take 4 to 12 weeks to see full effect.
A: Yes, taking it with food or milk can reduce stomach upset.
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.
A: It is generally considered safe for autoimmune conditions, but consult your doctor for individualized advice.
A: Long-term use can rarely cause retinal damage. Regular eye exams are essential to detect any changes early.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for coviq tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
kaiquin 200mg tabletKaizen Research Labs India Pvt Ltd ₹47.81 8.8% CHEAPER
-
hq 200mg tabletVasu Organics Pvt Ltd ₹51.56 1.7% CHEAPER
-
rumawill 200mg tabletMediwill Life Sciences ₹52.50 0.1% COSTLIER
-
zhquine 200mg tabletAmbience Pharma ₹52.78 0.7% COSTLIER
-
deng 200mg tabletEast West Pharma ₹54.14 3.3% COSTLIER
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