Chloroquine: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Chloroquine phosphate is an antimalarial medicine sold in Pakistan as tablets, syrups and injections. It is still used for Plasmodium vivax malaria, which causes most malaria cases in Pakistan.
How Chloroquine works
Chloroquine builds up inside the malaria parasite and stops it from safely digesting haemoglobin, which kills the parasite in the blood.
What is Chloroquine used for?
- Vivax malaria and other malaria types still sensitive to it
- Amoebic liver abscess, alongside other medicines
- Some autoimmune conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, although hydroxychloroquine is usually preferred
Falciparum malaria is widely resistant to chloroquine, so it is treated with combinations such as artemether with lumefantrine. Vivax malaria also needs a second medicine, primaquine, to prevent relapse, after a G6PD blood test.
Side effects of Chloroquine
Not everyone gets side effects. The ones reported more often are:
- Nausea, vomiting or stomach upset
- Headache
- Itching, which is common in people with darker skin
- Blurred vision
Chloroquine is very dangerous in overdose, and even a few tablets can be fatal to a child. Keep it locked away. Get emergency help for any suspected overdose, a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting or seizures.
Precautions and warnings
- Long-term use can damage the retina, so regular eye checks are needed.
- Tell your doctor about heart rhythm problems, epilepsy, psoriasis, liver disease or G6PD deficiency.
- Antacids reduce absorption, so take them a few hours apart.
- Complete the full course prescribed.
- It can be used in pregnancy for malaria when a doctor advises it.
Frequently asked questions about Chloroquine
Is chloroquine still used for malaria in Pakistan?
Yes, for vivax malaria, which is the most common type in Pakistan. Falciparum malaria needs different treatment, so a blood test to confirm the type is important.
Is chloroquine dangerous for children?
At the correct dose it is used in children, but accidental overdose is extremely dangerous. Always store it out of children’s reach.
Chloroquine brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 30+ products containing Chloroquine from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
