Hydroxychloroquine phosphate, more commonly known by the brand name Plaquenil, is a medication used for several purposes .
- Malaria prevention and treatment: It is used to prevent and treat malaria in areas where malaria remains sensitive to chloroquine.
- Autoimmune diseases: Hydroxychloroquine is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and porphyria cutanea tarda.
It is important to note that Hydroxychloroquine phosphate gained some attention during the COVID-19 pandemic as a potential treatment. However, large studies have shown no benefit and can potentially cause harm. So, it is not recommended for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19.
Hydroxychloroquine phosphate is typically taken by mouth, often in the form of hydroxychloroquine sulfate. You should take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor and don't take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed.