Hetquenil 400mg (Hydroxychloroquine 400mg)

What is Hetquenil 400mg?

Hetquenil 400mg contains Hydroxychloroquine Sulphate, an antimalarial and disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). It is primarily used to prevent and treat malaria and is also prescribed for autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.

What are the Uses of Hetquenil 400mg?

• Treatment and prevention of malaria (except strains resistant to chloroquine)

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – reduces joint inflammation and pain

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) – controls flares and symptoms

• Discoid lupus erythematosus

• Off-label uses: Sjögren’s syndrome, sarcoidosis, and COVID-19 (explored under clinical settings, not widely recommended now)

What are the Benefits of Hetquenil 400mg?

• Reduces joint swelling and pain in RA

• Controls inflammation and immune responses in lupus

• Prevents and treats malarial infections

• May slow disease progression in autoimmune conditions

• Fewer serious side effects compared to other DMARDs

How Does Hetquenil 400mg Work?

Hydroxychloroquine works by:

• Disrupting parasite growth in red blood cells in malaria

• Modulating the immune system by interfering with antigen presentation and cytokine production

• Decreasing inflammation in autoimmune diseases

How to Take Hetquenil 400mg?

• Take the tablet orally with food or a glass of milk to reduce stomach upset.

• It is usually taken once daily or in divided doses, depending on the condition being treated.

• Do not crush or chew the tablet unless instructed by your physician.

Dosage of Hetquenil 400mg

Dosage may vary based on the condition:

• Malaria prevention: 400mg once weekly

• Malaria treatment: 800mg initially, followed by 400mg after 6–8 hours, then 400mg daily for 2 days

• Rheumatoid arthritis or lupus: Usually 200–400mg daily

Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.

Missed Dose and Overdose

Missed Dose:

• Take it as soon as you remember.

• If it’s near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose.

• Do not double the dose.

Overdose:

• Symptoms include headache, visual disturbances, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, or sudden drop in blood pressure.

• Seek emergency medical help immediately.

• Overdose of hydroxychloroquine can be life-threatening, especially in children.

Available Strengths of Hetquenil

• Hetquenil 200 mg

• Hetquenil 400 mg

Side Effects of Hetquenil 400mg

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Headache

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

• Dizziness

Serious Side Effects:

• Retinal damage/vision problems (requires regular eye exams)

• Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)

• Muscle weakness

• Skin reactions

• Low blood cell counts

Interactions of Hetquenil 400mg

May interact with:

• Digoxin – increased blood levels

• Antidiabetic drugs – may enhance effect, causing hypoglycemia

• Drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., amiodarone, azithromycin)

• Cimetidine – may increase hydroxychloroquine levels

Precautions of Hetquenil 400mg

• Regular eye exams are essential during long-term use

• Avoid in patients with retinal or visual field abnormalities

• Caution in those with heart disease, liver or kidney dysfunction

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless necessary

• Monitor blood sugar levels in diabetic patients

Storage Information

• Store below 25°C (77°F), away from light and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not use after the expiry date

Availability in the US and Australia

• United States: Available by prescription, marketed under brand names like Plaquenil

• Australia: Available with a prescription; regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q1: How long does it take for Hetquenil to work in autoimmune conditions?

It may take 4 to 12 weeks to show full benefits in RA or lupus.

Q2: Can Hetquenil 400mg cause eye problems?

Yes, retinopathy is a rare but serious side effect. Regular eye exams are important.

Q3: Is it safe to take Hetquenil long-term?

Yes, but only under supervision with regular monitoring of eyes, blood counts, and liver function.

Q4: Can Hetquenil be taken during pregnancy?

It is used cautiously during pregnancy if the benefit outweighs the risk, especially in lupus.

Q5: Does Hetquenil cure malaria?

It helps treat and prevent malaria, but resistance in some regions may limit its use.