Chloroquine - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Chloroquine is used for the treatment and prevention of malaria. It may also be used to treat a parasitic infection called “amoebiasis”.

This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Chloroquine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine should be taken with food or immediately after a meal to minimise stomach discomfort.

Take Chloroquine at regular intervals for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not clear completely.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- liver disease
- kidney disease
- ear or hearing problems
- stomach disease
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)
- G6PD deficiency (an inherited blood disorder that affects the red blood cell)
- porphyria (an inherited disorder that may cause skin or nervous problems)

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular blood tests to check your body's response to the medicine. You may also need regular eye check-ups to ensure that Chloroquine does not cause any eye problems. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What side effects could I experience?
Chloroquine may cause any of the following side effects: headache, itchiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, ringing in the ears and anxiety.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

- hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent)
- yellowing of the skin, eyes, pain near the stomach area

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

- medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. carbamazepine
- medicines for mood disorders e.g. valproate
- other medicines to treat malaria e.g. halofantrine, mefloquine
- medicines for heart disease e.g. amiodarone
- medicines to neutralise stomach acid e.g. cimetidine
- antibiotics e.g. ampicillin

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Chloroquine.

This medicine should not be taken with antacids as antacids may reduce the effectiveness of Chloroquine. If you must take antacids, take between meals at least 2 hours after you have taken this medicine.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on chloroquine - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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