HCQS 200mg (Hydroxychloroquine 200mg)

What is HCQS 200mg?

HCQS 200mg contains Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate, an antimalarial and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). It is primarily used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, and sometimes malaria.

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What are the Uses of HCQS 200 mg?

HCQS 200 mg is prescribed for:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

• Malaria prevention and treatment (although not first-line anymore)

• Occasionally studied for COVID-19, though not currently recommended due to lack of efficacy and safety concerns

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What are the Benefits of HCQS 200 mg?

• Reduces joint pain and inflammation in autoimmune disorders

• Slows disease progression in RA and lupus

• Improves skin symptoms and fatigue in lupus patients

• Helps in flare prevention

• Mild immunomodulatory action with fewer side effects compared to other DMARDs

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How Does HCQS 200 mg Work?

HCQS interferes with the communication of cells in the immune system. It:

• Inhibits cytokine production

• Reduces autoimmune response

• Alters pH in lysosomes of immune cells, which interferes with antigen processing

• Has anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, and immunomodulatory properties

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How to Take HCQS 200 mg?

• Orally, with or after meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort

• Take with a full glass of water

• Follow your doctor’s prescription strictly

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Dosage of HCQS 200 mg

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Usually 200–400 mg/day (once or in divided doses)

• Lupus: 200–400 mg/day

• Malaria prophylaxis: 400 mg once weekly, starting 2 weeks before exposure

• Malaria treatment: Initial dose 800 mg, followed by 400 mg at 6, 24, and 48 hours

Note: Dosing depends on body weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.

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Missed Dose and Overdose

• Missed Dose: Take it as soon as you remember. Skip if it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

• Overdose: Can be fatal, especially in children. Symptoms may include vision changes, drowsiness, heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, and cardiac arrest. Seek immediate medical attention.

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What Are the Available Strengths of HCQS?

• HCQS 200 mg

• HCQS 300 mg

• HCQS 400 mg

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Side Effects of HCQS 200 mg

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Headache

Serious:

• Retinal damage/vision problems

• Muscle weakness

• Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)

• Low blood sugar

• Psychiatric disturbances (mood swings, hallucinations)

Long-term use requires regular eye checkups.

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Interactions of HCQS 200mg

• Increased risk of arrhythmia with other QT-prolonging drugs

• May interact with digoxin, antidiabetic medications, and antiseizure drugs

• Avoid combining with alcohol and certain immunosuppressants without medical advice

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Precautions of HCQS 200mg

• Eye exams every 6–12 months for long-term use

• Use cautiously in people with:

  • Heart disease or arrhythmias

  • G6PD deficiency

  • Psoriasis

• Not typically recommend during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks

• Keep out of reach of children – risk of fatal overdose

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Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (15–30°C / 59–86°F)

• Protect from moisture, heat, and light

• Keep in original packaging

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Availability in the US and Australia

• USA: Available by prescription as generic Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate (Plaquenil is the brand name)

• Australia: Available under PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) with prescription for conditions like RA and lupus

Note: Supply can vary depending on demand (e.g., during COVID-19 spikes).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q1. Is HCQS 200mg safe for long-term use?

Yes, but requires regular monitoring, especially for vision.

Q2. Can HCQS cure lupus or rheumatoid arthritis?

No cure, but it manages symptoms and slows progression.

Q3. Can I stop HCQS suddenly?

No, sudden discontinuation can cause flare-ups. Always consult your doctor.

Q4. How long does it take for HCQS to show effects?

May take 4 to 12 weeks for noticeable improvement.