American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What class of medication is hydroxychloroquine?

1. Antimalarial

2. Immunosuppressant

3. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

4. Biologic therapy

The correct answer is: Antimalarial

Hydroxychloroquine belongs to the class of medications known as antimalarials. It was originally developed for the prevention and treatment of malaria, particularly those caused by the Plasmodium species. The drug works by interfering with the growth of the malaria parasite in the red blood cells of the human body. In addition to its antimalarial properties, hydroxychloroquine is also used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Its effectiveness in these conditions is largely attributed to its immunomodulatory effects, which can suppress the overactive immune response typical in such diseases. However, its classification primarily reflects its historical use against malaria. While it does have immunosuppressive properties, it is not categorized primarily as an immunosuppressant like some other medications that are used specifically for that purpose in organ transplantation or severe autoimmune disorders. It is also distinct from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are primarily aimed at reducing inflammation and pain without the specific target or mechanism that defines hydroxychloroquine's action. Lastly, hydroxychloroquine is not a biologic therapy, as biologics are typically derived from living organisms and target specific components of the immune system in a more targeted