Abstract

The efficacy of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19 has been a subject of global scientific and medical scrutiny since the onset of the pandemic. Initially repurposed for their known antiviral and immunomodulatory properties, both drugs gained attention due to preliminary in vitro studies suggesting potential activity against SARS-CoV-2. This article critically examines the existing clinical and laboratory evidence on the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in treating COVID-19. It reviews early observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and large-scale meta-analyses to assess therapeutic outcomes such as viral clearance, symptom relief, hospitalization duration, and mortality rates. The findings indicate mixed results, with many later studies showing limited or no significant benefit, and some reporting adverse cardiac effects, particularly when combined with other medications like azithromycin. Regulatory bodies including the WHO and FDA have since revised their recommendations, limiting the use of these drugs outside clinical trials. This article concludes that while chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine offered early hope, current evidence does not support their widespread use for COVID-19 treatment. Ongoing research continues to explore their role, if any, in specific patient subgroups or as part of combination therapies.