Abstract
Background: Emergence and spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) resulting in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has posed a significant threat to public health and safety. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommended use of antimalarial agent, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for the prophylaxis of COVID-19 for high-risk population. This was a cross-sectional study carried out at a tertiary care hospital with a dedicated COVID-19 hospital.

Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate adverse drug reactions (ADRs) attributed to prophylactic doses of HCQ among health care workers (HCWs).

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted at tertiary care hospital which included HCWs involved in COVID-19-related services and has taken at least one dose of HCQ. A pre-validated web-based questionnaire was administered to the study participants. Data regarding demographic parameters, pre-existing illness, reason for prophylactic HCQ use, pre-existing comorbidities, concomitant medications, start date of HCQ intake, and adverse effects experienced were collected.

Results: Two hundred and ninety-two participants have taken HCQ prophylactically and were used for final analysis. Overall, 52 adverse events were documented in 11 participants (3.77 %). The most frequently reported symptoms were nausea and headache, followed by diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, mood disturbances such as feeling irritated, gastritis, decrease/loss of appetite, and skin rash. Three participants required medication (tablet Pan D, Rantac 150 mg, ORS, and syrup Mucaine) for the treatment of adverse effects. Three participants discontinued HCQ due to headache, mood disturbances such as feeling irritated, decrease/loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

Conclusion: In the present study, no serious ADRs were reported. However, larger studies are warranted to generate more comprehensive safety data for HCQ use in COVID-19.

Key words: COVID-19; Chemoprophylaxis; Hydroxychloroquine; Adverse Drug Reactions; Health Care Workers