The hydroxychloroquine is a type of medicine called a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). This arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the joints. This is available without any brand name. The hydroxychloroquine is also now being continuously studied as one of the medicine for the COVID-19. The COVID-19 is known as severe acute respiratory syndrome. This is a syndrome that attacks the weak immune system. The COVID-19 is known to be fatal to those who have a weak immune system.
The COVID-19 causes pulmonary infections and it is already pandemic. The efforts of international health authorities have since focused on the rapid diagnosis and isolation of patients. There are many studies for therapies and one of these is the hydroxychloroquine. The molecule of the hydroxychloroquine is described as one of the potent inhibitors of the said virus. The initial trial of this medicine is already imposed. It leads to further trials and the possible mechanism. It is also currently discussed its interference with the replication cycle of the virus.
What is COVID-19?
This is an infectious disease caused by a new genetic of a coronavirus. The outbreak of the COVID-19 happens in Wuhan, China in 2019. The outbreak then has spread to over 100 countries in the world. The COVID_19 is now considered as pandemic as it affects the global economy, health, and living. The vaccine for these diseases is still being studied. There are cases that COVID-19 can be asymptomatic. This happens when the host has a strong immune system. However, most of the cases and patients around the world have manifested some symptoms.
The symptoms of the COVID-19
You have to be careful with social contact because this virus is easily spread. It is recommended to observe self-quarantine if you have experienced most of the symptoms. Take precautionary measures as soon as possible. The symptoms of the virus are usually visible in 2 weeks.
- Fever and muscle pain
- Sore throat and dry cough
- Severe symptoms are pneumonia and organ failure
- Cough and shortness of breath
- Production of sputum
How does the hydroxychloroquine works?
This has the presence of the hydroxyl group at the end of the side chain. This appears as a versatile bioactive agent reported to possess antiviral activity. This has already proven some treatment to virus-infected patients. These also work by inhibiting the vitro replication of the virus in the epithelial lung cell culture. The content of the hydroxychloroquine inhibits the entry of the viral cycle. It interferes with viral particles binding to their cellular cell surface receptor.
It works in the immune system through cell signaling and the regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This can also impair another early stage of virus replication by interfering with the pH-dependent endosome-mediated entry. Aside from affecting the virus maturation process it also affects its growth and maturation. The work of the Chloroquine is also based on the age, weight, and severity of the illness. The onset of the effects of the Chloroquine can be observed right away.
Hydroxychloroquine with other medicine
This may lower the effectiveness of vaccines such as rabies. It lowers the vaccines that are administered into the skin. Have your vaccine ahead of time or before you will take this medicine. The Antacids that are used to treat indigestion and heartburn can reduce the absorption of chloroquine from the gut. This may mean the full dose is not absorbed into the body. To avoid such a situation you have to take the antacid ahead of time.
Cimetidine can also prevent the breakdown of chloroquine by the liver. This eventually leads to an increased level of chloroquine in the blood. You should avoid taking cimetidine with chloroquine as it may increase the risk of side effects. Let your doctor know if you are recently taking Cimetidine.
How to use the hydroxychloroquine?
Take this medication by mouth after eating your meal. You have to take this as directed by your doctor. This has specific weekly dosing which is also set by the doctor. The length of the treatment is still being studied but you have to base it on your medical condition. Stick to the duration of dose and do not take it if you go beyond the dosage period. Follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid the worst side effects. You also have to take it ahead of other medications you have.
The hydroxychloroquine should be used in caution with elderly people. Tell your doctor if you have existing diseases such as kidney and liver diseases. People with severe gut disorders and diabetes must observe proper treatment. This is not allowed for breastfeeding or pregnant women. Inform your doctor if you just had surgery or you just gave birth.
Common and Serious Side Effects of Hydroxychloroquine
- Nausea, stomach cramps and loss of appetite
- Diarrhea, dizziness, and headache
If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Stop taking the hydroxychloroquine if it causes uneasiness and severe effects. Inform your doctor if one of the side effects occurs. Below are the lists of the severe side effects of hydroxychloroquine.
- Body pain and slow heartbeat
- Symptoms of heart failure
- Shortness of breath, swelling, and unusual tiredness
- Sudden weight gain and hair loss
- Mental and mood changes
- Hearing loss, worsening of skin conditions
- Severe stomach and abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- This medication may rarely cause low blood
Above is not the complete list of the possible light and severe side effects of the medicine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor. You can also proceed to an emergency or nearest hospital as much as possible. You can buy hydroxychloroquine online.
Precaution in taking the hydroxychloroquine
- Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor
- Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed
- Self-quarantine should be observed in on-going treatment
- Keep this away from the sight and reach of children
- Do not stop taking it before completing treatment
- Skipping or changing your dose may affect the treatment
- Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and other parasitic organisms
- Stay away from people when you experience sneezing and cough
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5482/hydroxychloroquine-oral/details
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/927033
https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/search/?q=Hydroxychloroquine
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924857920300881?via%3Dihub
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41421-020-0156-0
