Hydroxychloroquine: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Malaria Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria due to P.

Data source
FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label fe39f2c0…)
Label version
current
Last reviewed
2026
Side effects

Reported adverse reactions

Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.

No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.

Uses

Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)

Malaria Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria due to P. falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. vivax. Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are indicated for the prophylaxis of malaria in geographic areas where chloroquine resistance is not reported. Limitations of Use in Malaria • Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are not recommended for the treatment of complicated malaria. • Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are not effective against chloroquine or hydroxychloroquineresistant strains of Plasmodium species (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY – Microbiology). Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are not recommended for the treatment of malaria acquired in geographic areas where chloroquine resistance occurs or when the Plasmodium species has not been identified. • Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets are not recommended for malaria prophylaxis in geographic areas where chloroquine resistance occurs. • Hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets do not prevent relapses of P. vivax or P. ovale because it is not active against the hypnozoite forms of these parasites. For radical cure of P. vivax and P. ovale infections, concomitant therapy with an 8-…

Related conditions

Conditions associated with Hydroxychloroquine in labeling

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hydroxychloroquine used for?

FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.

What are the most commonly reported side effects of Hydroxychloroquine?

Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.

Does Hydroxychloroquine require lab monitoring?

Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Hydroxychloroquine.

Where does this information come from?

All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.

Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Educational content only: The information on Symptom Database.com is for educational purposes and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. Read our full disclaimer.