About chloroqui ne
Antimalarial; 4-aminoquinoline
Used for
- Treating malaria caused by susceptible parasites
- Preventing malaria in certain regions
- Treating some amoebic liver infections
- Treating lupus or rheumatoid arthritis in selected cases
Usual adult dose
Malaria treatment: 600 mg base initially, then 300 mg base at 6, 24, and 48 hours; dosing depends on local guidance.
Usual dose in children
Malaria treatment: 10 mg base/kg initially, then 5 mg/kg at 6, 24, and 48 hours; maximum adult dose.
Common side effects
- Nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headache, dizziness, or itching
- Blurred vision or other visual changes
- Rarely, heart rhythm problems or severe low blood sugar
Important warnings
- Overdose can be fatal, especially in children; keep securely stored.
- Long-term use can damage the retina and requires eye monitoring.
- Use caution with heart rhythm disorders, seizures, psoriasis, or liver disease.
- Chloroquine only treats malaria parasites sensitive to it; resistance is common.
Pregnancy
Use when clearly needed; untreated malaria can seriously harm mother and fetus. Follow current regional malaria guidance.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts pass into breast milk; breastfeeding does not provide adequate protection against malaria for an infant.
Interactions
- Heart-rhythm medicines may increase dangerous rhythm changes.
- Antacids and kaolin can reduce absorption; separate doses by at least four hours.
- Cimetidine can increase chloroquine levels.
- Chloroquine may reduce response to rabies vaccine given into the skin.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.