What is Chloroquine?
Chloroquine is a widely used drug that provides a spectrum of powerful influences on the body, eliminating the symptoms of existing disorders and preventing the occurrence of possible ones. Most commonly, Chloroquine is used as a treatment of malaria. Besides, the remedy is effective for the improvement of amebiasis, which is triggered by amoebae.
Chloroquine promotes antiviral effects, which enable its use for the treatment of viral disorders. Additionally, the medication can be taken for the reduction or prevention of other disorders that are not listed in the safety guide. Contact your medical specialist before you start to use Chloroquine off label.
Recommendations for Use
Follow the safety directions and intake instructions as you use Chloroquine. Take the medication strictly in accordance with the recommendations specified by the doctor. The dosage and duration of the therapy with Chloroquine may depend on the condition you are treating. On average, the drug is taken once a week, preferably at the same time.
Chloroquine dose is individually prescribed, depending on the overall health state of the patient, his/her condition, severity, and a range of other factors. Given to children, the dosage of Chloroquine depends also on weight. It is essential to use the medication for the full prescribed length, irrespective of the symptoms, and their improvement. Contact your medical specialist immediately if you have noticed the signs of fever or similar symptoms.
No mediation can guarantee complete prevention of malaria infection. Talk to your doctor immediately if you have noticed any health problems, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea during the treatment course with Chloroquine. Frequent vision and medical tests are necessary for patients, who use the drug for more than two weeks.
Precautions and Contraindications
Do not start the treatment course with Chloroquine if you are sensitive to Hydroxychloroquine or similar medications. The drug is contraindicated for people, who have had damage to the retina or significant vision changes. High doses of Chloroquine may trigger irreversible damage to the retina, causing temporary and permanent vision disorders. The risk of serious health damages is increased in patients, who are diagnosed with underlying kidney disorders, eye problems, or other issues.
Drug Interactions
Chloroquine may interact with a range of other prescription and non-prescription drugs, herbal supplements, and medical products. However, its impact on the organism cannot be affected by foods and drinks.
Side Effects
Seek medical assistance if you have noticed the symptoms of allergic reactions or skin disorders after the use of Chloroquine. Other adverse reactions may include seizures, uneven or pounding heartbeats, ringing in the ears, severe muscle weakness, low blood sugar, etc.
Before You Start Chloroquine Treatment
Your doctor should be warned about other health disorders and abnormalities you have, before the beginning of the treatment course with Chloroquine. Ultimate attention should be paid to the following issues:
● Porphyria;
● Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency;
● Alcoholism;
● Psoriasis;
● Diabetes;
● Vision impairments;
● Heart rhythm disorders;
● Heart-related complications;
● Electrolyte imbalance;
● Kidney or liver problems, etc.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use Chloroquine without a prescription.
Chloroquine and Other Drugs
This medicine can enhance the risk of serious heart disorders if combined with other medications. Inform your medical specialist about prescription and OTC drugs you are currently using. Do not combine Chloroquine with any of the following remedies:
● Antibiotics;
● Oral diabetes drugs;
● Tamoxifen;
● Mefloquine;
● Cimetidine;
● Praziquantel;
● Cyclosporine and others.
Driving and Operating Machines
Chloroquine is not likely to harm your attention or reaction. Contact your doctor if any disorders started bothering you during the treatment course.
Overdose
An overdose of Chloroquine must be treated fast, as it can be fatal. Seek emergency medical assistance in case the intake of the drug has caused allergic reactions or other life-threatening issues.