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Evidence record

Hydroxychloroquine × COVID-19

Proposed antiviral and immunomodulatory effects via lysosomal pH and autophagy.

Insufficient Evidence
PublishedLast updated June 29, 2026Download evidence report
Drug: HydroxychloroquineDisease: COVID-19Target: Lysosomal pathway

Why this drug?

Originally an antimalarial, hydroxychloroquine was repurposed for autoimmune disease based on immunomodulatory effects. COVID-19 repurposing attempts yielded insufficient evidence after large RCTs.

Known risks

  • Retinopathy with long-term use (requires screening)
  • QT prolongation
  • Hypoglycemia
  • GI upset

Evidence behind this

Confidence score12%
Signal strength: Very LowLevel 1 (negative RCTs)
Evidence grade
Insufficient Evidence

Large RCTs (RECOVERY, SOLIDARITY) showed no mortality benefit; not recommended.

Mechanism

Proposed antiviral and immunomodulatory effects via lysosomal pH and autophagy.

clinical trialmeta analysisMultiple Phase III (negative)

Authoritative sources

  • PubMed · 33031652

    Repurposed antiviral drugs for COVID-19 (SOLIDARITY)

    WHO Solidarity Consortium (2021)

    View
  • ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT04332991

    SOLIDARITY trial

    View

AI-generated summary

Generated March 15, 2026Last verified June 29, 2026

Despite early enthusiasm, hydroxychloroquine lacks efficacy for COVID-19. RECOVERY and SOLIDARITY trials demonstrated no benefit; WHO recommends against use. Important negative repurposing example.

Source papers
  • WHO Solidarity Consortium, NEJM 2021

This summary is AI-assisted and human-reviewed. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult authoritative sources and qualified professionals.