Can you buy hydroxychloroquine over the counter?

In this article:

• Can you get hydroxychloroquine over the counter?
• Cost and insurance coverage for hydroxychloroquine
• Can you buy hydroxychloroquine online without a prescription?
• Precautions to keep in mind while taking hydroxychloroquine
• Who should avoid hydroxychloroquine?
• Are there any hydroxychloroquine alternatives you can get over the counter?

In this article

• Can you get hydroxychloroquine over the counter?
• Cost and insurance coverage for hydroxychloroquine
• Can you buy hydroxychloroquine online without a prescription?
• Precautions to keep in mind while taking hydroxychloroquine
• Who should avoid hydroxychloroquine?
• Are there any hydroxychloroquine alternatives you can get over the counter?

Hydroxychloroquine is a medication originally used to treat malaria but is now more commonly prescribed for conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. It helps kill the parasite that causes malaria and suppresses the immune system to reduce inflammation. Over the years, some have explored its potential off-label uses, such as COVID-19 and various autoimmune diseases.

If you’ve read about hydroxychloroquine as a potential treatment option, you might wonder if you can bypass a doctor’s visit and purchase it directly. You might even consider buying hydroxychloroquine from online pharmacies, but this can be risky and is generally not recommended due to potential dangers.

Read on to learn more about hydroxychloroquine and whether it’s available over the counter. 

Can you get hydroxychloroquine over the counter?

Hydroxychloroquine is not available over the counter in the United States. It is a prescription drug widely known by the brand name Plaquenil. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates it and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider to purchase it.

Hydroxychloroquine has been used since the 1940s to treat several diseases, including malaria, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Because of its specific uses and potential side effects, it is a prescription-only medication. You should only take it using the correct dosage with a healthcare provider’s guidance.

The availability of hydroxychloroquine is similar across many countries. For example, you cannot get it without a prescription in Canada and most European countries. However, it may be available over the counter in Mexico. While you may be able to obtain hydroxychloroquine in Mexico and bring it to the United States, there are various limits and restrictions.

Cost and insurance coverage for hydroxychloroquine

The cost of hydroxychloroquine can vary based on where you live, your insurance, and which pharmacy you use. In general, the average retail price for 60 hydroxychloroquine 200 mg tablets is around $237. However, with discounts or coupons, you might pay as little as $20 for a month’s supply. 

Most Medicare and insurance plans usually cover the generic version of hydroxychloroquine. However, you may still be responsible for a copay or coinsurance amount, which can vary by plan. Sometimes, using pharmacy coupons or paying cash might save you more than going through your insurance.

Can you buy hydroxychloroquine online without a prescription?

You can’t purchase hydroxychloroquine online without a prescription. In the United States, online pharmacies only sell this medication if you have a prescription. That’s because it can cause serious side effects and needs to be taken as directed by a healthcare provider.

Dangers of buying prescription drugs online

Buying prescription drugs online can be risky, especially if the pharmacy is not regulated by organizations like the FDA. Some online pharmacies may operate without proper licenses, which could put consumers at risk of receiving counterfeit or substandard medications. 

It’s important to be cautious of pharmacies that don’t require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. In fact, it can be a major red flag. Safe online pharmacies always ask for a prescription and have licensed pharmacists available for consultations.

Other warnings to keep in mind may include:

• Prices that seem too low, which may indicate fake products
• Lack of a physical address or phone number for contact
• Websites not certified by agencies like the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy

While some Canadian pharmacies may seem reliable, they may not be subject to the same health and safety regulations as those enforced by the FDA. As a result, these medications may differ from those approved by U.S. standards.

Precautions to keep in mind while taking hydroxychloroquine

If you take hydroxychloroquine, you’ll want to take it exactly as prescribed. That means avoiding missed or high doses. If you miss a dose of hydroxychloroquine, you should take it as soon as you remember, but not close to the next dose. Other precautions include watching for potential side effects and avoiding drug interactions.

Potential side effects

The most common side effects of hydroxychloroquine include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Serious side effects are also possible, including vision changes, muscle weakness, an irregular heartbeat, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Hydroxychloroquine may also cause a skin rash or other serious reactions on the skin.

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any persistent or worsening side effects. Serious side effects, such as severe vision problems or allergic reactions, require immediate medical attention.

Drug interactions

Interactions with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and supplements should also be discussed with a healthcare provider. For example, hydroxychloroquine can affect heart rhythm, which might lead to serious heart problems if taken with certain other medications. 

For people taking insulin or other diabetes medications, hydroxychloroquine may make these drugs stronger, increasing the risk of low blood sugar. Hydroxychloroquine can also lower the threshold for seizures, meaning it might increase the chance of having a seizure if taken with other medications that also affect seizure risk.

Who should avoid hydroxychloroquine?

While it can be helpful for many people, certain groups should avoid taking it due to potential risks. 

Here’s a simple overview of who should be cautious or avoid using hydroxychloroquine: 

• People with allergies: Anyone allergic to similar medications (4-aminoquinoline compounds) should not take hydroxychloroquine. 
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Studies have not shown a strong risk for birth defects. Still, pregnant women should use caution and seek guidance from a healthcare provider.
• Individuals with kidney or liver problems: Those with problems in their kidneys or liver may need to take a lower dose, as the medication can be more dangerous for them. 
• Older adults: There’s a higher risk of side effects in older adults, especially if they have other health problems. 
• Children under 31 kg (around 68 pounds): This medication is not appropriate for children who weigh less than this, as the tablets cannot be broken down for proper dosing.

It’s important to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider before taking hydroxychloroquine. Having the right guidance can help protect your health and make sure the treatment is effective.

Are there any hydroxychloroquine alternatives you can get over the counter?

Some alternatives to hydroxychloroquine may be bought over the counter to help manage symptoms. However, they typically don’t target the underlying causes of symptoms or have the same effects as hydroxychloroquine. The best choice will depend on the specific health problem.

Hydroxychloroquine alternatives for malaria

Hydroxychloroquine alternatives for the treatment of malaria include several prescription medications. Some common options are Aralen (chloroquine), Vibramycin (doxycycline), Lariam (mefloquine), and Malarone (atovaquone/proguanil). While some people might try natural home remedies like ginger, grapefruit, and herbal teas to feel better, these should not replace prescription antimalarial treatments. These remedies might help with symptoms but do not kill the malaria parasite.

Hydroxychloroquine alternatives for lupus

Hydroxychloroquine alternatives for lupus include several prescription medications that help manage the symptoms and control the disease. These prescription drugs include steroids, immunosuppressants such as Imuran (azathioprine) and CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil), and biologic drugs like Benlysta (belimumab). For autoimmune conditions such as lupus, OTC options are limited and generally not effective. However, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil (ibuprofen) and Aleve (naproxen) may be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Hydroxychloroquine alternatives for rheumatoid arthritis

Hydroxychloroquine alternatives for rheumatoid arthritis include several prescription medications. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate and Arava (leflunomide) help slow the disease and protect joints. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, such as Xeljanz (tofacitinib), target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation. 

As nonprescription options, pain relievers like Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help with symptoms. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and vitamin D might also support joint health and the immune system.

Not all alternatives offer the same effects as prescription medications like hydroxychloroquine sulfate. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting new supplements, even those available without a prescription. 

Bottom line

You can’t buy hydroxychloroquine over the counter in the United States. This is because of its specific uses and possible side effects. Buying it online without a prescription can be dangerous, as it may lead to counterfeit products or improper dosages. There are other options, like NSAIDs, that can help relieve symptoms for conditions such as arthritis, but they don’t work the same way as hydroxychloroquine. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to find a safe and effective treatment option.