Chloroquine
Avian Malaria, Rheumatoid Arthritis ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Antimalarial
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Chloroquine
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Chloroquine is primarily used to prevent and treat malaria, a disease caused by parasites that enter the body through mosquito bites. It is also used to treat amebiasis, an infection of the intestines caused by a parasite. Additionally, it is used to manage autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Chloroquine works by interfering with the growth of parasites in the red blood cells, which helps treat and prevent malaria. It disrupts the parasite's ability to digest hemoglobin, ultimately killing it. For autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, it reduces inflammation by modulating the immune response.
Chloroquine is typically taken orally with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. For malaria prevention, it is taken once weekly, starting 1-2 weeks before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after. For treatment of malaria or autoimmune conditions, the dosage varies based on the condition being treated.
Common side effects of Chloroquine include nausea, abdominal pain, mood swings, anxiety, sleep problems, and headaches. It can also cause drowsiness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may experience changes in appetite, weight, or sexual function. Chloroquine can also cause low blood sugar and hearing problems.
Chloroquine should not be taken by people who are allergic to it or have eye problems. It should be used with caution in people with heart problems, a slow heart rate, low potassium or magnesium levels, or a history of seizures. It can also cause problems in people with a certain condition called G6PD deficiency. Pregnant women should weigh the benefits and risks before using it.
Indications and Purpose
What is Chloroquine used for?
Chloroquine 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 chloroquine. Additionally, chloroquine phosphate tablets are used to treat amebiasis, an infection of the intestines caused by a parasite.
How does Chloroquine work?
Chloroquine 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, chloroquine disrupts the parasite's ability to digest hemoglobin, ultimately killing it. For autoimmune conditions, it reduces inflammation by modulating the immune response.
Is Chloroquine effective?
Yes, chloroquine 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 chloroquine 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 does one know if Chloroquine is working?
You can tell chloroquine 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.
Directions for Use
How do I take Chloroquine?
Take chloroquine 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 Chloroquine?
The typical duration of use for chloroquine 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.
How long does it take for Chloroquine to start working?
Chloroquine 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.
How should I store Chloroquine?
Store chloroquine 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.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Chloroquine?
Chloroquine 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 chloroquine 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 Chloroquine with other prescription drugs?
- Chloroquine can cause anemia in people with a certain condition called G-6-PD deficiency. - Chloroquine can increase the chance of seizures in people with a history of seizures. - Taking chloroquine and mefloquine together can increase the risk of seizures. - Cimetidine can increase the amount of chloroquine in your blood, so avoid taking them together. - Antacids and kaolin can make it harder for your body to absorb chloroquine, so take them at least 4 hours apart. - Chloroquine can reduce the effectiveness of ampicillin, so take them at least two hours apart.
Can I take Chloroquine with vitamins or supplements?
Chloroquine can generally be taken with most vitamins or supplements. However, be cautious with supplements containing calcium, magnesium, or iron, as they may affect chloroquine absorption. Additionally, St. John's Wort or other herbal supplements may interfere with its effectiveness. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding new vitamins or supplements to ensure they won’t interact with chloroquine.
Can Chloroquine be taken safely while pregnant?
Chloroquine 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 chloroquine during pregnancy. However, animal studies have shown that high doses of chloroquine can cause problems with fetal development. Therefore, the benefits and risks of taking chloroquine during pregnancy should be carefully weighed before using it.
Can Chloroquine 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 chloroquine. Infants can receive a maximum daily dose of chloroquine through breastfeeding, which is about 0.7% of the initial dose a mother receives for malaria treatment. Infants require separate preventive treatment.
Is Chloroquine 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.
Forms / Brands
