Hydroquin
Generic Name
Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| hydroquin 200 mg tablet | ৳ 12.00 | ৳ 120.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial and immunomodulatory drug primarily used to prevent and treat malaria, and manage autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Malaria prophylaxis: 400 mg once weekly; Malaria treatment: 800 mg initial dose, then 400 mg at 6, 24, and 48 hours. Rheumatoid Arthritis/Lupus: 200-400 mg daily.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be required based on renal function and careful monitoring due to increased sensitivity.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction recommended for severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Oral administration, usually with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Interferes with the parasite's ability to metabolize hemoglobin; in autoimmune diseases, it inhibits TNF-alpha and other pro-inflammatory cytokines, stabilizes lysosomal membranes, and traps ions in acidic vacuoles, interfering with antigen processing.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antimalarial: within days; Autoimmune: several weeks to months.
Excretion
Primarily renal (approximately 50% unchanged drug), some biliary.
Half life
Long, elimination half-life is approximately 32-50 days.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the GI tract. Bioavailability is approximately 70-75%.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP2D6 to active and inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to 4-aminoquinoline derivatives
- Pre-existing maculopathy or retinal changes
- Long-term use in children
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May increase plasma levels of digoxin.
Insulin/Oral hypoglycemics
May enhance hypoglycemic effect.
Antacids (containing magnesium/aluminum)
May reduce absorption.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include headache, drowsiness, visual disturbances, cardiovascular collapse, convulsions, and cardiac arrest. Management involves immediate gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and symptomatic supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy and lactation only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies for specific indications
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive trials have established its efficacy in malaria, RA, and SLE. Ongoing research explores new indications and long-term safety.
Lab Monitoring
- Baseline and periodic ophthalmologic examinations (including visual acuity, fundoscopy, visual fields, OCT) are crucial.
- Complete blood counts (CBC)
- Liver and kidney function tests
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of regular ophthalmologic screening.
- Educate patients on potential visual symptoms and the need for immediate reporting.
- Monitor for signs of cardiotoxicity and neurological effects.
Patient Guidelines
- Take medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not crush or chew tablets.
- Report any visual changes immediately.
- Regular eye exams are necessary during long-term therapy.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause blurred vision or dizziness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery until effects are known.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Regular exercise as advised by doctor.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.