Hydrochloroquine - "old medicine" with new significance in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus
Abstract
Hydroxychloroquine was primarily used for the treatment and prevention of malaria, and its therapeutic effect on autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease has been reported over time. Hydroxychloroquine has the ability to alkalize the acidic environment of lysosomes, whereby a number of important events are influenced by an increase in pH, leading to an intervention in the mechanisms of both cellular and humoral immune responses.
Hydroxychloroquine is recommended for systemic lupus erythematosus in all patients unless contraindications are present. Hydroxychloroquine reduces the risk of flare, organ involvement, has corticoid-sparing effects and reduces the risk of thromboembolic events in systemic lupus erythematosus.
Hydroxychloroquine can be used during pregnancy and lactation. It is a relatively well tolerated drug.
Side effects include the potential development of ocular side effects, especially retinopathy. This paper deals with the mechanism of action and safety of treatment in systemic lupus erythematosus.