What is Chloroquine for ?

This medication is an antimalarial agent, prescribed for malaria. It prevents the growth of parasites in the red blood cells.

How does Chloroquine work ?

Chloroquine phosphate works to harm the parasite and fight the infection.

How should Chloroquine be used ?

Adults: PO- Initial dose is 600 mg, then 300mg 6hours later and 300mg every day for 2 days. Children: PO- Initial dose is 10 mgkg, then 5mgkg 6hours later and 5 mgkg every day for 2 days. It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.

Common side effects of Chloroquine ?

Anemia. Belly pain. Upset stomach or throwing up. Many small meals, good mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help. Eye problems may rarely happen.

What do I do if I miss a dose ?

Use a missed dose as soon as you think about it. - If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Many times this drug is used on an as needed basis.

What precautions should I take when taking Chloroquine ?

Do not take Chloroquine if you have a history of allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, severe rash, swollen eyes) to similar medicines such as hydroxychloroquine or primaquine. Alert your doctor if you have a history of epilepsy (seizures or fits), liver or kidney problems, other medical conditions such as alcoholism, psoriasis, porphyria, myasthenia gravis or an inherited condition known as G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

When do I need to seek medical help ?

If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Trouble breathing. Fever that happens while in or after coming back from the malaria area. Very upset stomach or throwing up. Sudden change in eyesight, eye pain, or irritation. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.

Can I take Chloroquine with other medicines ?

Alert your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines: antacids or kaolin, ampicillin, amiodarone, cimetidine, ciclosporin, halofantrine, mefloquine, praziquantel or rabies vaccination. - Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Are there any food restrictions ?

Avoid alcohol.

How do I store Chloroquine ?

Store it at room temperature (25-30 degree Celcius).

Pregnancy Category ?

Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Therapeutic Classification ?

Antimalarials.