COVID-19: reminder of the risks of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine

When prescribing these drugs, especially at high doses, healthcare professionals are advised to consider the risk of pre-existing cardiac conditions, uncorrected potassium or magnesium imbalance, and concomitant use with medicines that prolong the QT interval or antibiotics.

SPS commentary:

In addition to their cardiac effect, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine may cause neuropsychiatric disorders, including agitation, insomnia, confusion, psychosis and suicidal ideation. They are also known to affect the liver, cause neuronal damage that can lead to seizures, and cause hypoglycaemia.

European Medicines Agency