What it is used for
- Treatment and prevention of malaria caused by parasite strains that remain sensitive to it
- Some inflammatory and autoimmune conditions in certain regions
How it works
Chloroquine interferes with the malaria parasite's ability to process and detoxify the haemoglobin it consumes inside red blood cells, which kills the parasite. In autoimmune use it has additional effects on the immune system.
How it is taken
Usually taken as oral tablets or syrup. For prevention it is often started before travel and continued for a period after leaving a malaria area; for treatment it is given as a short course. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs, and complete the full course or prevention schedule.
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 vomiting
- Diarrhea or stomach upset
- Headache
- Itching (more common in some people)
- Blurred vision
- Loss of appetite
Serious effects — get help
- Vision changes or eye damage with long-term use — report any visual changes promptly
- Irregular or slow heartbeat, fainting, or palpitations — seek urgent care
- Severe skin reactions or signs of a severe allergic reaction — seek emergency care
- Muscle weakness, mood changes, or seizures — contact your clinician urgently
- Sudden severe anemia in people with G6PD deficiency — seek 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 antiepileptic medicines (effect may be reduced)
- Antacids and kaolin (can reduce absorption if taken close together)
- Other medicines affecting the liver
- Alcohol may add to liver strain
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician about any eye disease or vision problems, especially before long-term use
- Report a known heart-rhythm condition
- Mention G6PD deficiency, liver, or kidney problems
- Use caution with a history of psoriasis or epilepsy
- Inform your clinician if pregnant or breastfeeding
- Keep tablets well out of reach of children, as overdose is dangerous