Trump is taking hydroxychloroquine. Is it safe?

<p>Trump addressed the growing debate about the effectiveness his daily doses of hydroxychloroquine, telling reporters on Tuesday that the drug has been around for decades and is being used by "many, many" frontline health care workers.</p><p>"It doesn't seem to have any impact on me. But it seems to be a extra line of defense," he said, adding that the only reason why it's become an issue is because, "it's me."</p><p>"You should look at some of the studies, they've been amazing some of the studies," he said. "I strongly recommend to people with a doctor's advice and acknowledgement.</p><p>A letter from the White House physician released Monday said he and Trump concluded "the potential benefit from treatment outweighed the relative risks."</p><p>Hydroxychloroquine, also known for its brand name Plaquenil, is considered safe when taken for conditions that’s been approved for.</p><p>Approved in 1955, hydroxychloroquine has been used to treat malaria and autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.</p><p>In April, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration allowed for its use for hospitalized COVID-19 patients unable to join a clinical trial.</p><p>Data is still limited about hydroxychloroquine and COVID-19. But some small studies suggest the medications may be helpful, while other studies saw no benefit. There is another large study whether the drug can be used prophylactically, but it will not be completed until August.</p><p>The FDA issued a warning in May that hydroxychloroquine should not be taken outside of a hospital or clinical trial because of the risk of severe heart problems.</p><p>On Tuesday, the FDA stated that taking hydroxychloroquine is “ultimately” a choice between patients and their health-care providers.</p>