Hsquin 200 mg contains hydroxychloroquine, a medication originally developed to prevent and treat malaria but now widely used for autoimmune conditions. It belongs to the class of antimalarial agents with immune-modulating properties and is commonly prescribed for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Its versatility and relatively long-term safety profile have made it a staple in chronic inflammatory disease management.

Mechanism of Action
Hydroxychloroquine works through multiple mechanisms:

• It accumulates in lysosomes and increases their pH, which interferes with antigen processing and presentation, reducing the immune system’s overactivity.

• It also inhibits Toll-like receptor signalling, decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

• In malaria, it interferes with the parasite’s ability to detoxify heme, ultimately leading to its death.

  Uses
  Hsquin 200 mg is used in the following conditions:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis to reduce joint pain, swelling, and stiffness

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus to control symptoms such as fatigue, rash, and joint pain

  • Discoid lupus erythematosus affecting skin

  • Malaria prophylaxis and treatment, although its use for this has declined due to resistance in many areas

  • Occasionally used off-label for other autoimmune diseases

    Adverse Effects

    Common side effects include:

    • Nausea or upset stomach

    • Headache

    • Dizziness

    • Loss of appetite

    • Mild skin rash