Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate Tablets for Radiation-induced Oral Mucositis

This study is testing whether hydroxychloroquine — a medication usually used for lupus and malaria — can help prevent or reduce mouth sores (oral mucositis) caused by radiation therapy in patients being treated for head and neck cancers. Radiation-induced mouth sores are a very painful side effect that can disrupt eating and treatment. **You may be eligible if...** - You have a confirmed diagnosis of non-metastatic head and neck cancer - You are between 18 and 80 years old - You are scheduled for radiation therapy (either as main treatment or after surgery) - Your liver, kidney, and bone marrow function are within normal limits **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a known allergy to hydroxychloroquine or related compounds - You have received prior radiation therapy to the head and neck area - You have poor oral hygiene or severe gum disease - You have serious kidney disease, heart disease, myasthenia gravis, Parkinson's, or epilepsy - You have eye disease (retinopathy) - You are taking medications known to interact with hydroxychloroquine Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.