Signaquin 200 mg To Treat Malaria Description Signaquin is a generic medicine that contains hydroxychloroquine. It is recommended for the treatment and prevention of malaria. Hydroxychloroquine is also used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation of the joints) and systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease of the skin and the internal organs). Signaquin is nothing but an affordable generic version of Plaquenil. People using daily Plaquenil for rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can switch to Signaquin, as it also contains hydroxychloroquine in the same dosage.
Action Mechanism The exact mechanism of Signaquin in treating and preventing malaria, or managing the symptoms of lupus and arthritis is unknown. However, it is presumed that the drug exerts its effect by preventing the entry of malarial parasites into the red blood cells. The drug does not allow the parasite to enter or multiply in blood cells, thereby preventing or treating malaria effectively. Signaquin also helps reduce the inflammatory mediators, managing the symptoms of arthritis and lupus.
Dosage Always take Signaquin pills exactly as advised by your doctor. Please check with your doctor if you do not understand how to take it to treat or prevent malaria. The dosage pattern for malarial prevention and treatment is different so ask your doctor how to use Signaquin appropriately. You can take this medicine orally, with or without food, but do not crush or break the pill before consumption. You can even take the medicine with milk. For lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, take Signaquin 200 mg once daily or as advised. Do not overdose with this medication; otherwise, you may experience serious side effects. In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you recollect the dosage time, but avoid it if the next dose is scheduled. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dosage.
Precautions Talk to your doctor before taking Signaquin pills if you have liver or kidney disease, GI disorders, heart problems, blood disorders, psoriasis, G6PD deficiency, or any other medical condition. Before using Signaquin tablets, please have your eyes examined, especially if you are above 65 years of age. Also, get your blood sugar level checked. Tell your doctor if you are on any other medications before taking Signaquin, including OTC or prescription drugs, supplements, etc. The use of Signaquin is not recommended for pregnant women. Before or during treatment, if you discover you are pregnant, consult your physician right away. Do not take this medication if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed your newborn. That’s because the drug may pass into breast milk and cause harm to infants.
Side Effects Stomach pain Feeling tired Loss of appetite Headache Mood changes Blurry vision Muscle weakness These are a few common adverse events of Signaquin, which often subside after some time. However, get immediate medical assistance if they persist or if you experience serious side effects such as chest pain, breathlessness, dizziness, or any kind of allergic reaction.
Warnings Signaquin use may lead to some eye problems. If this happens, make sure you do not indulge in any risky activities like driving or operating machinery. Keep taking Signaquin pill until your physician advises you to stop. Do not abruptly stop taking the medicine just because you started feeling better. Check with your doctor before stopping the treatment. Signaquin must be used with extra caution in people with heart disease because it has been found to increase the risk of arrhythmias – heart rhythm disorder – especially in older people. Do not use outdated Signaquin tablets. Using expiry date medications could increase the risk of adverse events that may need immediate medical attention. So check the expiry date before use. If you are taking it for lupus or rheumatoid arthritis and do not notice any improvement in your symptoms, see your doctor.