{"id":631000,"date":"2025-01-10T16:10:48","date_gmt":"2025-01-10T21:10:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=631000"},"modified":"2025-01-10T16:10:48","modified_gmt":"2025-01-10T21:10:48","slug":"hydroxychloroquine-over-the-counter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/hydroxychloroquine-over-the-counter\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you buy hydroxychloroquine over the counter?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hydroxychloroquine<\/span><\/a> is a medication originally used to treat malaria but is now more commonly prescribed for conditions like <\/span>lupus<\/span><\/a> and rheumatoid arthritis. It helps kill the parasite that causes malaria and suppresses the immune system to reduce inflammation. Over the years, some have explored its potential off-label uses, such as <\/span>COVID-19<\/span><\/a> and various autoimmune diseases.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve read about hydroxychloroquine as a potential treatment option, you might wonder if you can bypass a doctor’s visit and purchase it directly. You might even consider buying hydroxychloroquine from <\/span>online pharmacies<\/span><\/a>, but this can be risky and is generally not recommended due to potential dangers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Read on to learn more about hydroxychloroquine and whether it\u2019s available over the counter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you get hydroxychloroquine over the counter?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Hydroxychloroquine is not available over the counter in the United States. It is a prescription drug widely known by the brand name Plaquenil. The <\/span>Food and Drug Administration (FDA)<\/span><\/a> regulates it and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider to purchase it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hydroxychloroquine has been used since the 1940s to treat several diseases, including malaria, lupus, and <\/span>rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><\/a>. Because of its specific uses and potential side effects, it is a prescription-only medication. You should only take it using the correct dosage with a healthcare provider\u2019s guidance.<\/span><\/p>\n

The availability of hydroxychloroquine is similar across many countries. For example, you cannot get it without a prescription in Canada and most European countries. However, it may be available over the counter in <\/span>Mexico<\/span><\/a>. While you may be able to obtain hydroxychloroquine in Mexico and bring it to the United States, there are various limits and restrictions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cost and insurance coverage for hydroxychloroquine<\/span><\/h3>\n

The cost of hydroxychloroquine can vary based on where you live, your insurance, and which pharmacy you use. In general, the average retail price for 60 hydroxychloroquine 200 mg tablets is around $237. However, with discounts or <\/span>coupons<\/span><\/a>, you might pay as little as $20 for a month’s supply.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Most Medicare and insurance plans usually cover the generic version of hydroxychloroquine. However, you may still be responsible for a copay or coinsurance amount, which can vary by plan. Sometimes, using pharmacy coupons or paying cash might save you more than going through your insurance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you buy hydroxychloroquine online without a prescription?<\/span><\/h2>\n

You can\u2019t purchase hydroxychloroquine online without a prescription. In the United States, online pharmacies only sell this medication if you have a prescription. That\u2019s because it can cause serious side effects and needs to be taken as directed by a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dangers of buying prescription drugs online<\/span><\/h3>\n

Buying prescription drugs online<\/span><\/a> can be risky, especially if the pharmacy is not regulated by organizations like the FDA. Some online pharmacies may operate without proper licenses, which could put consumers at risk of receiving counterfeit or substandard medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s important to be cautious of pharmacies that don\u2019t require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. In fact, it can be a major red flag. Safe online pharmacies always ask for a prescription and have licensed pharmacists available for consultations.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other warnings to keep in mind may include:<\/span><\/p>\n