Oxyclor 200mg Tablets

Hydroxychloroquine belongs to a group of medicines called disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). It changes how the immune system reacts, which helps reduce inflammation, swelling and pain.

It is used for:

• rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis
• lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)
• some skin conditions, such as lichen planus, sarcoidosis and conditions made worse by sunlight

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.

• Swallow the tablets whole with a meal or a glass of milk, at the same time each day.
• It can take several weeks to start working, so keep taking it unless your doctor says to stop.
• Take antacids at least 4 hours before or after hydroxychloroquine, as they can stop it being absorbed.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless your next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together.

Common side effects include:

• stomach ache, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea or loss of appetite
• headache
• itchy rash
• mood changes
• blurred vision when you first start

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• vision that stays blurred, changes in how you see colours, flashes, floaters or sensitivity to light
• yellow skin or eyes, dark pee or pale poo
• blistering, peeling skin or sores with a fever
• a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting or a fit
• shakiness, sweating, confusion or dizziness (signs of low blood sugar)
• swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have had an allergic reaction to hydroxychloroquine or a related medicine such as quinine
• have eye problems, including maculopathy
• have liver, kidney, blood or heart problems, or you or your family have a heart rhythm problem (long QT)
• have low potassium or magnesium, diabetes or psoriasis
• take digoxin, epilepsy medicines, antidepressants, cimetidine, antacids, or antibiotics such as azithromycin, clarithromycin or erythromycin

Keep in the original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Store it up high and out of reach of children.

Eyes: long-term use can damage the retina, and this may be permanent. You may need regular eye checks.

Children: an overdose can be very dangerous, especially for a child. Keep it locked away and get urgent help if a child swallows any.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: it can be used if needed, but tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Driving: do not drive or use machines if your vision is blurred.