HCQ is taken for malaria prophylaxis as recommended by the CDC.

Yes, because the risk of untreated malaria far outweighs the risk of HCQ side effects. As HCQ is effective at treating malaria, it makes plenty of sense. As HCQ is ineffective at treating COVID, taking it for COVID means all the same risk and no reward.

Similarly, people die during heart transplants. As a result, the CDC doesn't recommend you get a heart transplant for funsies.