Side effects of hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine, like most medications, can cause unwanted side effects.

With this drug, the most common side effects are stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, and headache.

Although itching, rash, changes in skin pigmentation, muscle weakness, and/or hair changes are uncommon, some patients do experience them.

Taking hydroxychloroquine with food can significantly reduce these side effects for many patients.

However, if patients experience more serious side effects such as low blood sugar, fainting, blurred vision, irregular heartbeats, or ringing in the ears, they should consult their doctors.