Dr. Kapil Sharma MBBS , General Physician

Yes, Rhq is used to prevent and treat malaria caused by parasites Plasmodium species which are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium vivax. It is presumed that Rhq works by increasing pH in the acid vesicles of parasite which interferes in the parasite's ability to break down and digest hemoglobin. Malarial parasites need hemoglobin for growth and survival. This results in starvation and death of parasites.

Dr. Kishan Barnwal MBBS , General Physician

Oral tablet of Rhq should be taken by mouth 1 - 2 times a day or as advised by your doctor. Ideally, Rhq has to be taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Precautions must be taken in patients with G6PD deficiency, diabetes mellitus, and improper liver or kidney function.

Dr. R.K Singh MBBS , Diabetology

Rarely, Rhq causes fatigue. It is a rare side effect of this drug. However, the exact cause of fatigue is not known. If you experience tiredness after taking this drug, then try to take some rest even after that if you feel excessive tiredness then do discuss it with your doctor.

Dr. B. K. Agrawal MBBS, MD , Cardiology, General Physician, Internal Medicine

Yes, Rhq might cause hair loss (alopecia) but it occurs very rarely. This problem goes away after discontinuation of this drug. For partial hair loss, you are advised to use hair tonic and discuss with the doctor for best possible treatment to prevent hair loss.

Dr. OP Kholwad MBBS , General Physician

No, Rhq is not an antibiotic. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antimalarials and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). It is effective against parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium vivax.