About chloroquine phosphate
Antimalarial and antiprotozoal medicine
Used for
- Prevention and treatment of malaria caused by chloroquine-sensitive parasites
- Treatment of extraintestinal amoebiasis, usually with other medicines
- Sometimes used for lupus or rheumatoid arthritis under specialist care
Usual adult dose
Malaria doses depend on destination, parasite sensitivity, and local guidance. Treatment commonly totals 1,500 mg chloroquine base over three days; prevention is usually 300 mg base weekly.
Usual dose in children
For malaria, doses are weight-based and depend on local guidance; prevention is usually 5 mg base/kg weekly, maximum 300 mg base.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach pain
- Headache, dizziness, or itching
- Blurred vision or other visual changes
- Rarely, heart rhythm problems or low blood sugar
Important warnings
- Resistance makes chloroquine unsuitable for many malaria regions.
- Long-term use can damage the retina and requires eye monitoring.
- Seek urgent care for severe weakness, fainting, palpitations, or vision changes.
- Overdose can be rapidly fatal, especially in children.
Pregnancy
Use depends on the infection and malaria-resistance patterns. Chloroquine is generally considered usable for sensitive malaria during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; usual doses are generally compatible with breastfeeding, but they do not protect a nursing infant from malaria.
Interactions
- Antacids and kaolin can reduce absorption; separate doses by at least four hours.
- May increase digoxin levels or alter cyclosporine levels.
- Other medicines affecting heart rhythm can increase rhythm-related risks.
- Cimetidine can increase chloroquine levels.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.