With COVID-19 patients, the body starts its normal immune defense reaction, just like it would for any virus. Because hydroxychloroquine has shown to regulate the activity of the immune system and calm an inflammatory immune response, the theory is that it could help COVID patients fight off the next phase of the virus.
However, there are conflicting studies on the effectiveness of using hydroxychloroquine in treating COVID-19. Like so many other aspects about this virus, more research is needed before doctors can say for sure if this drug is effective or safe for coronavirus patients. A host of clinical studies are underway to find a treatment for COVID-19, and the FDA is working with various government agencies, academic centers, and biopharmaceutical companies to expedite the process.
Another important factor to remember is that during this pandemic, people who normally take these medications to manage their health are having a harder time getting the treatment they need. At least 22 states have recently passed regulations to limit hydroxychloroquine prescriptions and require physicians to write the diagnosis on the prescription itself to ensure those who need it are able to get it.
If you don’t have COVID-19, no drug is proven to help prevent contracting the virus. Staying home, practicing social distancing, and maintaining good hand hygiene are still your best bets. If you do have COVID-19, your physician will consider your health history to determine your treatment plan, and hydroxychloroquine may or may not be recommended. There are risks with taking hydroxychloroquine, especially for people with heart issues including cardiac arrythmias, seizures, rashes and hypoglycemia.