cerona (CHLOROQUINE)

What is Cerona?
Cerona is a medicine used to treat malaria and a type of infection caused by a tiny parasite. It is absorbed quickly into the body and stays in the tissues, especially in the liver, spleen, kidney, and lungs. Cerona can cause low blood sugar, which can lead to loss of consciousness, especially in people taking diabetes medications or without diabetes.

How do I take Cerona?
Take Cerona as prescribed, with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. For malaria prevention, take once weekly, starting 1-2 weeks before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after. Complete the full course.

For how long do I take Cerona?
The typical duration of use for Cerona varies based on the condition being treated, but it is generally prescribed for a limited period during acute malaria treatment or as prophylaxis in specific geographic areas.

What disease or symptom is Cerona used for?
Cerona phosphate tablets are a medicine used to treat malaria, a disease caused by parasites that enter the body through mosquito bites. They are also used to prevent malaria in areas where the parasites are known to be sensitive to Cerona. Additionally, Cerona phosphate tablets are used to treat amebiasis, an infection of the intestines caused by a parasite.

How long does it take for Cerona to start working?
Cerona typically starts working within 1 to 2 days for malaria treatment, though it may take several days for full effects. For malaria prevention, it may take a few weeks to build up sufficient protection. The exact time can vary based on the condition being treated and individual response.

Is Cerona effective?
Yes, Cerona is effective for treating and preventing malaria caused by certain types of Plasmodium parasites, especially in regions where the parasite is still sensitive to the drug. It is also effective in managing autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. However, resistance to Cerona has developed in some areas, making it less effective for malaria in those regions. Always consult your doctor for the best treatment options based on your location and health condition.

How do I know if Cerona is working?
You can tell Cerona is working if you notice improvement in symptoms such as reduced fever, chills, and other malaria symptoms, or decreased inflammation in conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. For malaria, symptoms typically improve within 1-2 days. For autoimmune conditions, it may take several weeks to see full benefits. If you’re not feeling better or symptoms persist, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

How does Cerona work?
Cerona works by interfering with the growth of parasites in the red blood cells, which helps treat and prevent malaria. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, which is why it’s used for autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. In malaria treatment, Cerona disrupts the parasite's ability to digest hemoglobin, ultimately killing it. For autoimmune conditions, it reduces inflammation by modulating the immune response.

Who should avoid taking Cerona?
Cerona should not be taken by people who are allergic to it or have eye problems. People with heart problems, a slow heart rate, or low potassium or magnesium levels should use Cerona with caution. It should also be used with caution when taking other medications that can prolong the QT interval, as this can increase the risk of heart problems.

Can I take Cerona with other prescription drugs?
- Cerona can cause anemia in people with a certain condition called G-6-PD deficiency. - Cerona can increase the chance of seizures in people with a history of seizures. - Taking Cerona and mefloquine together can increase the risk of seizures. - Cimetidine can increase the amount of Cerona in your blood, so avoid taking them together. - Antacids and kaolin can make it harder for your body to absorb Cerona, so take them at least 4 hours apart. - Cerona can reduce the effectiveness of ampicillin, so take them at least two hours apart.

Can Cerona be taken safely while pregnant?
Cerona is a drug used to prevent and treat malaria. Studies in humans have not found an increased risk of birth defects or miscarriages when taking recommended doses of Cerona during pregnancy. However, animal studies have shown that high doses of Cerona can cause problems with fetal development. Therefore, the benefits and risks of taking Cerona during pregnancy should be carefully weighed before using it.

Can Cerona be taken safely while breastfeeding?
To prevent serious side effects in nursing infants, doctors must decide whether a mother should stop breastfeeding or stop taking Cerona. Infants can receive a maximum daily dose of Cerona through breastfeeding, which is about 0.7% of the initial dose a mother receives for malaria treatment. Infants require separate preventive treatment.

Is Cerona safe for the elderly?
Older people tend to have lower kidney function. Therefore, it is important to carefully choose the dose of medications for them and monitor their kidney function to avoid toxic reactions.

How should I store Cerona?
Store Cerona at room temperature (68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C), away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it in its original container, tightly sealed, and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom due to moisture. Always follow the storage instructions on the medication label.

Does Cerona make people tired or drowsy?
Cerona may cause drowsiness or fatigue, occurring in more than 10% of users. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating machinery and consult your healthcare provider if they persist.

Does Cerona cause stomach upset?
Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea and abdominal pain. If you experience these symptoms, stay hydrated and consult a healthcare professional if they worsen or do not improve.

Does Cerona affect sleep?
Cerona can affect sleep, leading to insomnia in more than 10% of users. If you notice significant changes in your sleep patterns, discuss this with your doctor for potential adjustments.

Does Cerona make it hard to think or concentrate?
Some users report difficulty concentrating or thinking, with occurrences exceeding 10%. If you find these cognitive effects troubling, consult your healthcare provider for advice on managing them.

Does Cerona affect mood?
Mood swings or feelings of anxiety may occur in over 10% of patients. If you experience significant mood changes, seek guidance from a healthcare professional for support.

Does Cerona interfere with sexual function?
Cerona may lead to a decrease in libido. If you notice changes in sexual function, discuss this with your doctor for potential alternatives.

Does Cerona affect appetite?
Cerona, a medication for treating malaria, may affect your appetite. If you experience changes in appetite while taking Cerona, your doctor should check your blood glucose levels. Any necessary treatment adjustments can then be made.

Does Cerona cause weight gain?
Cerona may affect weight, but the exact frequency of this side effect is unknown. If you experience any weight changes while taking Cerona, consult your doctor.

Does Cerona cause headaches?
Headaches are a common side effect, affecting over 10% of users. If headaches become frequent or severe, consult your doctor for possible solutions.

Does Cerona limit driving?
Cerona can cause hearing problems, especially for people who already have trouble hearing and also impair driving ability due to drowsiness. If you have any hearing issues while taking Cerona, stop taking it right away and see a doctor.

What are Cerona possible harms and risks?
This medicine may cause some side effects. Common side effects include: * Hemolysis in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency * Hearing problems * Increased risk of seizures in people with epilepsy * Low blood sugar Serious side effects include: * Retinal damage * Heart damage * Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, and other mental health problems * Muscle damage or nerve damage
Available in 3 variations

Cerona 1mg Tablet
Cerona 1mg Tablet
Chloroquine (1mg)
strip of 20 tablets

Cerona 0.5mg Tablet
Cerona 0.5mg Tablet
Chloroquine (0.5mg)
strip of 20 tablets

Cerona 2mg Tablet
Cerona 2mg Tablet
Chloroquine (2mg)
strip of 20 tablets