hydroxychloroquine

drug

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Last updated

July 22, 2026

Quick Summary

Hydroxychloroquine is a synthetic drug derived from quinoline, primarily used to treat malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus erythematosus. It is taken orally, often in the form of its sulfate.12

While originally an antimalarial, hydroxychloroquine is also prescribed for milder forms of arthritis. It shares similarities with chloroquine, another quinoline derivative used for similar conditions.21

Common side effects can include headache, abdominal cramps, skin rash, nausea, and tinnitus. Long-term use may lead to visual impairment due to retinal damage. Hydroxychloroquine can interact with other medications, potentially altering drug levels in the body.1

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chloroquine
Chloroquine is closely related to hydroxychloroquine, another type of quinoline derivative. Hydroxychloroquine is also used in the treatment of malaria and inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Hydroxychloroquine has many of the same side effects as chloroquine, including an elevated risk of retinopathy, but generally is considered to be less toxic.
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Chloroquine is closely related to hydroxychloroquine, another type of quinoline derivative. Hydroxychloroquine is also used in the treatment of malaria and inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Hydroxychloroquine has many of the same side effects as chloroquine, including an elevated risk of retinopathy, but generally is considered to be less toxic.
Read More