Chloroquine is a drug used for preventing and treating malaria. The disease is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito. The drug is also used for treating liver disease caused by protozoa

It is rapidly acting erythrocytic schizonticide; controls most clinical attacks in 1-2 days with disappearance of parasites from peripheral blood. However, it has no effect on pre and exo-erythrocytic phases of the parasite and does not prevent relapses in vivax and ovale malaria.

The drug is available in the following forms:

• Tablets
• Injection

Dosage
1 gm stat followed by 500 mg after every 6 hours and 500 mg daily for the next two days

Contra- Indications: Pregnancy, Liver damage, severe G.I. & haematological diseases, eye impairment

Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated with the drug:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Itching
• Headache
• Loss of vision due to retinal damage

Brands