Use of hydroxychloroquine in multidrug protocols for SARS-CoV-2

Review of the use of HCQ in multidrug protocols for SARS-CoV-2 treatment. Authors report that HCQ played an important role in preventing hospitalizations and deaths due to COVID-19, particularly in 2020 with more virulent strains. They discuss the early adoption of HCQ-based multidrug protocols, which included combinations with azithromycin, zinc, corticosteroids, and anticoagulants. Authors present statistical analyses of case series data suggesting significant reductions in hospitalization and mortality rates. They emphasize the importance of early treatment, preferably within 3 days of symptom onset, and critique randomized controlled trials that tested HCQ monotherapy or in late-stage disease. Authors argue that outpatient treatment with repurposed drugs should be encouraged in future pandemics, citing the need for rapid treatment based on biological plausibility and early evidence rather than awaiting large-scale randomized trials.