Why is this medication prescribed?

Chloroquine is primarily prescribed for the treatment and prevention of malaria. It works by killing the malaria parasites or preventing their growth in the body.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how it is generally used:

• Dosage: The dosage of chloroquine varies depending on the type of malaria being treated, your age, weight, and any other medical conditions you may have. It’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Chloroquine is usually taken orally (by mouth) as tablets or syrup. It should be taken with food or a glass of milk to minimize stomach upset.
• Duration: The duration of treatment depends on the type and severity of malaria. It’s important to complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if you start feeling better after a few days.
• Prevention: If used for malaria prevention, chloroquine is typically taken once a week on the same day each week, starting one to two weeks before traveling to a malaria-endemic area. It should be continued during the stay in the area and for four weeks after leaving.
• Special Instructions: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose, and do not skip doses.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may conduct regular blood tests to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and check for any side effects.
• Side Effects: Chloroquine can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
• Allergic Reactions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions to chloroquine or similar medications.
• Interaction: Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as they may interact with chloroquine.
• Storage: Store chloroquine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition and needs when using chloroquine.

Other uses for this medicine

• Autoimmune Disorders: Chloroquine and its derivative hydroxychloroquine have been used off-label to treat certain autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, and porphyria cutanea tarda. They are believed to modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in these conditions.
• Viral Infections: There has been some interest in chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine for their potential antiviral properties against certain viruses, including coronaviruses (such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19). However, their efficacy and safety for these uses are still under investigation and should only be used under medical supervision and in clinical trials.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using chloroquine for any condition, including malaria or other off-label uses, it’s important to take special precautions:

• Medical History: Inform your doctor about your complete medical history, including any allergies, liver disease, kidney disease, heart problems, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, or any other conditions you may have.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Chloroquine should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It can pass into breast milk and may have adverse effects on nursing infants, so caution is advised if breastfeeding.
• Eye Examinations: Regular eye examinations may be recommended while taking chloroquine, especially for long-term use, to monitor for any potential eye problems such as retinopathy (damage to the retina).
• Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically perform blood tests to check for any changes in blood cell counts or liver function.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Chloroquine can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while taking chloroquine.
• Dosage and Administration: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage, frequency, and duration of chloroquine treatment. Do not adjust your dose without medical advice.

Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance specific to your condition and needs when using chloroquine or any medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for chloroquine. However, taking it with food or a glass of milk can help reduce stomach upset. If you experience nausea or vomiting as a side effect, eating small, frequent meals and avoiding spicy or fatty foods may help alleviate symptoms.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Taking too much chloroquine at once can increase the risk of side effects.
• If you are unsure about what to do, or if you have missed several doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Chloroquine, like any medication, can cause side effects. These side effects can vary in severity and may affect individuals differently. Common side effects of chloroquine include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps are among the most common side effects. Taking chloroquine with food or a glass of milk can help reduce these symptoms.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Headache, dizziness, and blurred vision can occur, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use.
• Skin Reactions: Itching, skin rash, and hair loss (especially in individuals with prolonged use) are possible side effects.
• Eye Effects: Chloroquine can rarely cause eye problems such as retinopathy (damage to the retina), which can lead to vision changes or loss. Regular eye examinations are recommended during long-term therapy.
• Cardiac Effects: Rarely, chloroquine can cause changes in heart rhythm (QT prolongation) or heart muscle problems.
• Blood Disorders: Chloroquine can affect blood cells, leading to changes such as low white blood cell count (leukopenia), low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), or anemia.
• Other Effects: Muscle weakness, hearing loss (especially with prolonged use), and allergic reactions (including severe skin reactions or anaphylaxis) have been reported in some individuals.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience different or additional side effects. If you notice any unusual or severe symptoms while taking chloroquine, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment regimen as needed.

Additionally, chloroquine should be used cautiously in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, and should be avoided in individuals with known allergies to chloroquine or similar medications.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of chloroquine and inform them of any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions or complications.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Chloroquine:

• Storage: Keep chloroquine tablets or syrup in a tightly closed container at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Do not freeze chloroquine.
• Child Safety: Store chloroquine out of reach and sight of children and pets, as it can be dangerous if ingested accidentally.
• Disposal: If you no longer need to use chloroquine or it has expired, dispose of it properly. Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or local waste disposal regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms: Symptoms of chloroquine overdose may include drowsiness, headache, visual disturbances, seizures, irregular heartbeats, and loss of consciousness.
• Emergency Response: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking chloroquine:
  • Call emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) immediately.
  • You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (US) or the emergency services number in your country for guidance.
  • Provide information about the amount of chloroquine taken and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: If you are taking chloroquine for a long duration, your doctor may schedule regular blood tests and eye examinations to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.
• Travel Considerations: If using chloroquine for malaria prevention during travel, start taking it before entering a malaria-endemic area as recommended by your healthcare provider. Continue taking it while in the area and for the prescribed duration after leaving.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements, as chloroquine can interact with other medications.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have had an allergic reaction to chloroquine or any similar medications in the past, inform your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Special Populations: Chloroquine should be used with caution in elderly patients and those with liver or kidney disease, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider and report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.

By following these guidelines and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider, you can safely and effectively use chloroquine for its intended purpose, whether for treating malaria or other conditions for which it may be prescribed.