Elsevier established a free COVID-19 resource center in January 2020, offering English and Mandarin information on the virus. The center is hosted on Elsevier Connect, and Elsevier grants permission for free access to its research in PubMed Central and other repositories. The article discusses the potential use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine against SARS-CoV-2. Chloroquine showed in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2, and clinical trials in China indicated its effectiveness in reducing pneumonia severity and duration. Chloroquine was included in treatment guidelines for COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine, used for intracellular bacterial infections, also showed antiviral activity, possibly due to its effect on phagolysosomes. Both drugs have similar mechanisms of action, and hydroxychloroquine is often prescribed long-term, making it a potential first-line treatment for SARS-CoV-2. The optimal dosage and treatment regimen require further study. The research was funded by the French government, and no competing interests were declared. The authors are from Aix-Marseille Université and IHU Méditerranée Infection. The study highlights the potential of repurposing existing drugs for new therapeutic uses.Elsevier established a free COVID-19 resource center in January 2020, offering English and Mandarin information on the virus. The center is hosted on Elsevier Connect, and Elsevier grants permission for free access to its research in PubMed Central and other repositories. The article discusses the potential use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine against SARS-CoV-2. Chloroquine showed in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2, and clinical trials in China indicated its effectiveness in reducing pneumonia severity and duration. Chloroquine was included in treatment guidelines for COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine, used for intracellular bacterial infections, also showed antiviral activity, possibly due to its effect on phagolysosomes. Both drugs have similar mechanisms of action, and hydroxychloroquine is often prescribed long-term, making it a potential first-line treatment for SARS-CoV-2. The optimal dosage and treatment regimen require further study. The research was funded by the French government, and no competing interests were declared. The authors are from Aix-Marseille Université and IHU Méditerranée Infection. The study highlights the potential of repurposing existing drugs for new therapeutic uses.