HCQheal 200mg (Hydroxychloroquine / Generic Plaquenil)

HCQheal 200mg (Hydroxychloroquine / Generic Plaquenil) – Product Description

Brand Name: HCQheal
Active Ingredient: Hydroxychloroquine 200mg
Drug Class: Antimalarial, Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drug (DMARD)
Manufactured By: Various generic manufacturers (e.g., Heal Pharma)
Packaging:  available in blister packs of 10 tablets.

Description:

HCQheal 200mg contains Hydroxychloroquine, an antimalarial medication primarily used to prevent and treat malaria. It also serves as an effective treatment for autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and dermatomyositis. Hydroxychloroquine works by interfering with the growth of parasites and modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation.

Uses:

HCQheal 200mg is prescribed for the treatment of the following conditions:

1. Malaria:

   • Used to prevent and treat malaria, particularly caused by Plasmodium falciparum and other susceptible parasites.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis:

   • Reduces inflammation and prevents joint damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):

   • Controls symptoms such as joint pain, skin rashes, and fatigue associated with lupus.

4. Other Autoimmune Diseases:

   • It is sometimes used in conditions like dermatomyositis and psoriasis, where inflammation and immune system dysregulation are prominent.

5. COVID-19 (off-label use):

   • During the COVID-19 pandemic, hydroxychloroquine was studied and sometimes used to manage symptoms of the virus. However, this use is controversial and not recommended in some countries due to safety concerns.

Dosage & Administration:

For Malaria:

• Adults:

  • Prevention: 400 mg once a week starting 1-2 weeks before travel to an endemic area and continuing for 4 weeks after returning.

  • Treatment: 800 mg initially, followed by 400 mg 6 hours later, then 400 mg daily for the next 2 days.

For Rheumatoid Arthritis & Lupus:

• Adults:

  • Typical dose is 200-400 mg once or twice daily, depending on the condition and response to treatment.

For Children:

• Malaria Prevention/Treatment and Autoimmune Disease: Doses for children are based on body weight, and a healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose.

Side Effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Loss of appetite

• Skin rash or itching

Serious Side Effects:

• Retinopathy: Long-term use can lead to damage to the retina, potentially causing vision problems. Regular eye exams are recommended.

• Cardiac Issues: Can affect the heart’s rhythm, leading to conditions like QT prolongation.

• Severe allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, and hives.

• Blood Disorders: Rare cases of low blood count (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia).

• Muscle Weakness: Prolonged use may cause muscle damage or weakness, especially when taken with certain other medications.

Precautions & Warnings:

⚠ Eye Exams:

• Regular eye exams are recommended for long-term users due to the risk of retinal damage.
  ⚠ Liver/Kidney Disorders:

• Use cautiously in patients with liver or kidney issues. Dose adjustments may be necessary. ⚠ Cardiac Health:

• Hydroxychloroquine may cause heart rhythm problems, so it should be used with caution in patients with heart disease or those on medications that affect heart rhythms.
  ⚠ Pregnancy & Breastfeeding:

  • Pregnancy: Generally considered safe during pregnancy for malaria prevention or treatment, but always consult a doctor.

  • Breastfeeding: Hydroxychloroquine passes into breast milk, but the amount is typically low and considered safe for most infants. Always consult your healthcare provider.
    ⚠ Alcohol:

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver damage.

Drug Interactions:

• Antacids or Kaolin: May decrease the absorption of Hydroxychloroquine.

• Cimetidine: Increases the concentration of Hydroxychloroquine in the blood, potentially enhancing side effects.

• Quinidine or Quinine: Combining with these medications can increase the risk of heart rhythm problems.

• Digoxin: Hydroxychloroquine may increase the effects of digoxin, used for heart conditions.

• Other Antimalarial Drugs: Concomitant use of multiple antimalarial medications may increase the risk of side effects.

  Storage Instructions:

✅ Store at room temperature (15°C to 25°C).
✅ Protect from moisture, heat, and light.
✅ Keep out of the reach of children.
✅ Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer:

This product description is for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, adjusting, or discontinuing any medication. HCQheal 200mg should only be used as prescribed by your doctor. Do not self-medicate or use this medication without proper medical supervision