What are the uses and side effects of HCQS?
Patient: Dear doctor, I have been prescribed HCQS by my doctor as I have developed serious rashes on my feet which has been diagnosed as urticaria vasculits. I am a lady who is 49 years old and currently on depakote as mood stabilizer . Is it safe to take this drug and what are the watch outs. Doctor: Hi,  HCQS is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug commonly prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases. Generally it is very well tolerated.  However it may cause nausea and diarrhea, which often improve with time. Less common side effects include rash, changes in skin pigment, hair changes, muscle weakness and anemia in individuals with G6PD deficiency or porphyria.  In rare cases, it can cause visual changes or loss of vision. Such vision problems are more likely to occur in individuals taking high doses for many years, individuals 60 years or older, or those with significant kidney disease.   It is recommended that you have an eye exam within the first year of use, then repeat every one to five years.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Take care  Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali