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Hydroxychloroquine

Drug Information

Hydroxychloroquine is used to prevent and treat acute attacks of malaria and to treat both acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It is in a class of drugs known as antimalarials.

Common brand names:

Plaquenil

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

What Are Nutrient Interactions

Types of interactions: Beneficial Adverse Check

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

none

Reduce Side Effects

none

Support Medicine

Vitamin B6

An individual who took hydroxychloroquine and vitamin B6 together for nine years experienced a complete disappearance of skin nodules caused by rheumatoid arthritis.¹ Controlled study is needed to determine whether taking vitamin B6 with or without hydroxychloroquine might help eliminate nodules in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Reduces Effectiveness

Magnesium

Magnesium supplementation may reduce blood levels of chloroquine, a compound similar to hydroxychloroquine, and decrease its effectiveness.² Until more is known, people taking hydroxychloroquine for arthritis who are also using magnesium supplements and are not experiencing relief might try avoiding the supplements or taking them at separate times.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Potential Negative Interaction

none

Explanation Required

none

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

References

1. McCarty DJ. Complete reversal of rheumatoid nodulosis. J Rheumatology 1991;18:736–7.

2. Olin BR, ed. Anti-infectives, Antimalarial Preparations, 4-Aminoquinoline Compounds. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, 1993, 1913–6.

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Last Review: 11-07-2012

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

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