Chloroquine
Information about Chloroquine
Chloroquine uses
Chloroquine is used in the treatment of malaria.
How chloroquine works
Chloroquine is a an antiparasitic medication which treats malaria. It works by increasing the levels of haeme in the blood, a substance toxic to the malarial parasite. This kills the parasite and stops the infection from spreading.
Common side effects of chloroquine
Rash, Headache, Dizziness, Vomiting, Nausea, Stomach pain, Itching
Content Details
Last updated on:
20 Mar 2019 | 01:36 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Chloroquine
- 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-coloured and covered clothing when you are outside after sunset.
- Use insect repellent creams or sprays on parts of your body not covered by clothing.
- Spray to kill any mosquitoes that may have entered rooms in spite of screening.
- It may cause blurring of vision, when you first start taking it. Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration.
- Eye examination prior to and at 3–6 monthly intervals during use is required if patients are receiving Chloroquine at continuous high doses for longer duration.
- It may cause low blood sugar level. Monitor your blood sugar level regularly, if you are diabetic.
- When used long term, your doctor may monitor the amounts of the different types of blood cells in your blood regularly. Inform your doctor if you have unexplained bruising or bleeding, sore throat, fever, or general feeling of tiredness.
Frequently asked questions for Chloroquine
Chloroquine
Q. Is chloroquine a quinine/antibiotic/ contain sulpha/ is still used?
No, it is 4-aminoquinoline and not a quinine/antibiotic. It does not contain sulfa. It is used for the treatment of malaria (due to P. vivax, P.malariae, P. ovale, and susceptible strains of P. falciparum), prevention and suppression of malaria, amoebic hepatitis and abscess, discoid and systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis
Q. Is Chloroquine available over the counter?
Yes,it is available over the counter
Q. Is Chloroquine safe in G6PD deficiency?
No, as there may be a risk of hemolysis in patients with G6PD deficiency. Always consult your doctor regarding its use
Q. Is Chloroquine banned in Nigeria?
Yes, it is banned in Nigeria
Q. What is Lariago tablet/Lariago syrup/Lariago-DS/ Resochin used for?
These are the trade names of products containing the drug chloroquine and are used in the treatment of malaria
Q. Does Chloroquine affect birth control/ affect the birth control pill/contraceptive pill/ menstrual cycle?
No, it does not affect birth control/ affect birth control pill/contraceptive pill/ menstrual cycle. Patients should follow the advice of the doctor regarding its use
Q. Does Chloroquine cause nightmares/insomnia?
Chloroquine causing these side effects is rare or uncommon. Always consult your doctor for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.