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Updated February 2023
Hydroxycholoroquine is a medication used to treat certain childhood rheumatic conditions (diseases which may affect joints, muscles, skin or eyes). It is most commonly used to treat lupus (also known as SLE). Hydroxycholoroquine was originally designed to treat malaria.
It is a medication that works by modifying the way the immune system works. It reduces the damage done by inflammation, rather than just reducing pain. Because of this, it is called a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). Other medications in this group include leflunomide, methotrexate and sulfasalazine.
It is a medication that works slowly. It may take 2-3 months before you notice your child improving. It is often used in combination with other medications to control the disease.
Hydroxychloroquine is given as an oral tablet.
This depends on the weight of your child.
It may be continued for many years particularly for treating lupus.
Hydroxychloroquine is usually very effective in improving your child’s condition, but as with all medications side effects can occur. Some are common, and some are rare. Most people don’t have any problems when they take hydroxychloroquine.
Most common side effects
Treatment
Nausea & diarrhoea
Rare side effects
Sun sensitivity
Allergic reactions
Serious eye problems are extremely rare, if you are on this medication for more than a few years your doctor may recommend an annual eye check.
This medication has a bitter taste, so it is best taken with food. What to do if your child is sick It is safe to give hydroxychloroquine even if your child has a fever or another illness.
Interactions Hydroxychloroquine is generally safe with other medications. Immunisations Follow the normal immunisation schedule. Infections There is no increased risk of infections if your child is taking hydroxychloroquine
Myths and misconceptions You may hear a lot of different information about hydroxychloroquine from friends, pharmacists or people that you know. If you are worried about anything, please talk to your child’s doctor or nurse. If your child is taking hydroxychloroquine they should see their paediatric rheumatologist regularly to make sure the treatment is working and to minimise any possible side effects.