Hydroxychloroquine of No Benefit in Hand Osteoarthritis

[Arnaldo Libman]

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February 20, 2018

Hydroxychloroquine of No Benefit in Hand Osteoarthritis

By Amy Orciari Herman

Edited by Jaye Elizabeth Hefner, MD

Hydroxychloroquine does not improve symptoms of hand osteoarthritis, according to a trial in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Roughly 250 adults with radiographic evidence of hand osteoarthritis and moderately severe symptoms were randomized to receive hydroxychloroquine (usually 300 mg/day) or placebo for 12 months, in addition to their usual analgesic medications. All patients had reported insufficient response to, or adverse effects from, analgesics such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or opioids.

The primary endpoint — change in hand pain at 6 months — did not differ significantly between the groups. Secondary outcomes, including pain severity in the most painful joint, grip strength, and structural damage, also did not differ between the groups.

The researchers conclude that their findings "do not support the current practice of off-label use of [hydroxychloroquine] in patients with hand osteoarthritis."

LINK(S):

Annals of Internal Medicine article (Free abstract)

Annals of Internal Medicine editorial (Subscription required)

Background: NEJM Journal Watch Dermatology coverage of long-term safety of hydroxychloroquine (Your NEJM Journal Watch registration required)