August 24, 2022 (Vancouver) – Arthritis Research Canada scientists found no increased risk of irregular heartbeat (known as arrhythmia), among new users of the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine, also known as plaquenil, to manage rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Previous studies have suggested a link between hydroxychloroquine and the risk of an irregular heartbeat. To get a more accurate picture, a team of Arthritis Research Canada researchers conducted a large population-based study to investigate the association between hydroxychloroquine and risk of an irregular heartbeat among people who are newly diagnosed with RA and SLE.
“These results increase confidence for health care providers when treating people with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, knowing that hydroxychloroquine can be used safely and effectively to help manage these diseases,” said Rashedul Hoque, research trainee at Arthritis Research Canada and lead researcher in this study.
Hydroxychloroquine is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). It is used in the treatment of arthritis as it works with the immune system to prevent inflammation, joint damage, and other complications. Hydroxychloroquine is used to treat arthritis, such as RA, SLE, psoriatic arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and is typically taken in combination with other drugs.
These important findings were presented at the June 2022 European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) Congress in Copenhagen, including more than 18,000 delegates from over 130 countries.
To learn more about this research, please click here.
