Chloroquine

Uses

Chloroquine is used in the treatment of malaria.

How it Works

How Chloroquine Works Chloroquine is an antiparasitic medication used to treat malaria. It functions by increasing the levels of heme in the blood, a substance that is toxic to the malarial parasite. This action kills the parasite and prevents the infection from spreading.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Chloroquine include rash, headache, vomiting, nausea, and urticaria.

Expert Advice

Chloroquine is used for the prevention and treatment of malaria.
Take it with food to decrease the risk of stomach upset.
Tips to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:
- Wear light-colored and covered clothing when you are outside after sunset.
- Use insect repellent creams or sprays on exposed areas of your body.
- Spray to eliminate any mosquitoes that may have entered rooms despite screening.
Chloroquine may cause blurring of vision when you first start taking it. Use caution while driving or performing tasks that require concentration.
An eye examination is required before starting treatment and at 3–6 month intervals during use if patients are receiving Chloroquine at continuous high doses for an extended duration.
Chloroquine may cause low blood sugar levels. Regularly monitor your blood sugar level if you are diabetic.
When used long-term, your doctor may monitor the levels of different types of blood cells in your blood regularly.
Inform your doctor if you experience unexplained bruising or bleeding, sore throat, fever, or a general feeling of tiredness.

Other Combinations

Chloroquine + Primaquine

Hydroxychloroquine

Frequently asked questions

How can I prevent malaria?

Prevent malaria by taking precautions such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using mosquito nets and repellents, and consulting your doctor about antimalarial tablets, ensuring proper dosage and completion of the treatment course.

Who should avoid using Chloroquine?

Patients with psoriasis should inform their doctor before taking Chloroquine, as it may exacerbate their condition.

Can I take antacids with Chloroquine?

If you take an antacid, ensure there is a gap of at least 4 hours between the two medications.

Is long-term use of Chloroquine safe?

If prescribed Chloroquine for an extended period, regular eye check-ups are necessary, as it may cause blurred vision, difficulty reading, and a rare condition called retinopathy.

What is Chloroquine and what is its purpose?

Chloroquine is an anti-malarial medication used for the treatment and prevention of malaria.

Is Chloroquine effective for treating COVID-19?

There is insufficient medical evidence to support the use of Chloroquine for treating COVID-19; consult your doctor before considering it.

What are the common side effects of Chloroquine?

Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and headache, which can often be minimized by taking the medication with food.

How long does it take for malaria symptoms to appear?

Malaria symptoms can develop as quickly as 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, typically appearing within 7 to 18 days post-infection. Initial symptoms are flu-like and may include fever, chills, muscle pain, vomiting, headaches, and diarrhea.

What is the difference between hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine?

Both medications were initially approved for malaria, but hydroxychloroquine generally has fewer side effects and is also approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, unlike chloroquine.

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