What it is used for
- Prevention and treatment of malaria caused by sensitive parasite strains
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus and related autoimmune skin and joint conditions
How it works
Against malaria it disrupts the parasite's ability to survive inside red blood cells. In autoimmune disease it dampens overactive immune signalling, which reduces inflammation and flares.
How it is taken
Taken as oral tablets, usually with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. For autoimmune conditions it is taken regularly over the long term, and benefits can take weeks to appear. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and do not stop suddenly without advice.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rash
- Dizziness
Serious effects — get help
- Changes in vision or color perception (rare retinal effects with long-term use) — report promptly and seek review
- Irregular heartbeat, fainting, or palpitations — seek urgent care
- Severe skin reactions — seek emergency care
- Unusual muscle weakness or mood changes — contact your clinician
- Severe low blood sugar (faintness, sweating, confusion) — seek urgent care
- Sudden anemia in people with G6PD deficiency — urgent care
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Some diabetes medicines (blood sugar may drop further)
- Certain antiepileptic medicines
- Antacids (separate dosing times)
- Other immune-affecting medicines
Who should take care
- Regular eye monitoring is usually recommended for long-term use
- Tell your clinician about heart-rhythm conditions, diabetes, liver, kidney, or eye disease
- Mention G6PD deficiency or psoriasis
- Inform your clinician if pregnant or breastfeeding (often continued in lupus under supervision)
- Store securely away from children, as overdose is dangerous