Drug Uses

CHLOROQUINE is very useful in treating acute attacks of certain strains of malaria and a certain type of parasitic infection (extraintestinal amebiasis) and it works by killing sensitive malaria parasites by stopping normal metabolism inside the parasite.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.
You may choose to take CHLOROQUINE with a meal to avoid an upset stomach or without one. You are advised not to take antacids or products containing kaolin within 4 hours before or after taking Chloroquine.
Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

CHLOROQUINE falls under aminoquinoline and it works by killing sensitive malaria parasites by stopping normal metabolism inside the parasite.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.
Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store CHLOROQUINE at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F(20 and 25 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Chloroquine if:

you are allergic to any ingredient in Chloroquine;
you have vision problems or retinal changes;
you are taking arsenic, astemizole, terfenadine, cimetidine, cisapride, quinacrine, or dofetilide.
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important:
Chloroquine may cause dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Chloroquine. Using Chloroquine alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
Chloroquine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Chloroquine. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.
Contact your health care provider if you notice any muscle weakness or problems with vision or hearing. Your knee and ankle reflexes will be tested periodically.
Lab tests, such as complete blood cell counts and eye tests, may be needed to monitor your progress. Be sure to keep appointments.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant while taking Chloroquine, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Chloroquine during pregnancy. Chloroquine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Chloroquine.