[Hydroxychloroquine. Cardiology's viewpoint in times of coronavirus pandemic]

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic prompted investigation into various compounds for antiviral properties, including hydroxychloroquine.
• Cardiac safety and efficacy of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have been reviewed, considering their use as antimalarials, antivirals, and in rheumatic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardiac aspects associated with the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of these drugs in different therapeutic contexts.

Main Methods:

• A non-systematic review of existing medical literature was conducted.
• Information on antimalarial, antiviral, and long-term rheumatic disease treatment efficacy and safety was gathered.

Main Results:

• Hydroxychloroquine exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing long-term cardiovascular events.
• Cardiac issues, such as hypotension, tachycardia, and QT interval prolongation, are infrequent and can be exacerbated by azithromycin.
• The overall rate of adverse cardiac events associated with hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine use was found to be low.

Conclusions:

• Despite potential hemodynamic effects like QT prolongation, hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine demonstrate a low incidence of cardiac adverse events.
• The anti-inflammatory properties may offer cardiovascular benefits in specific patient populations.