Continued Use of Hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19 in Outpatient or Hospitalized Settings: What is the Evidence?

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is still a major global challenge and the world is involved in combating the second and third waves of the disease that has coused significant mortality levels in many countries. Despite the urgent need for proven treatment option, there is still uncertainty about the treatment candidates of COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine was commonly suggested in ambulatory as well as hospitalised setting during the initial phase of this pandemic for potential prophylaxis or treatment of COVID-19. Different national and international guidelines have recommended its use. However, the cumulative evidence from subsequent clinical trials has shown no significant clinical benefits alone or in combination with azithromycin, with a high risk of adverse effects. Nevertheless, hydroxychloroquine is continuously employed especially in ambulatory environments and should be avoided, since evidence from various clinical trials dose not support its use.