Clinical Evaluation of Hydroxychloroquine, a Desludging Agent, in Angina Pectoris

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Abstract
A controlled double-blind study of the use of hydroxychloroquine sulphate, a desludging agent, in the treatment of angina pectoris was carried out in 18 male patients with well authenticated and typical features of this condition. Response to treatment was assessed by the weekly consumption of glyceryl trinitrate tablets, and more objectively, by a specially devised exercise tolerance test which allowed the patient to exercise at his own speed and within the limits of his own capacity. There was no significant change in either the frequency of anginal attacks or the performance of exercise while the drug was in use. Similarly there was no significant change in either the subjective or objective evidence of myocardial ischemia with hydroxychloroquine. The side effects of the drug were infrequent and of a minor degree with a dose of 200 mg 4 times daily. The relationship between sludging of red cells and ischemic heart disease is briefly discussed. There was no evidence supporting the use of hydroxychloroquine sulphate in angina pectoris. The importance of a controlled study and objective criteria of improvement in the assessment of an antianginal drug is pointed out.