Aralen (Chloroquine)

Aralen

Common Use: Aralen is an aminoquinoline used to treat or prevent malaria infections and certain types of parasitic infections. It kills malaria parasites, most likely by damaging their DNA (genetic material).

Dosage and Directions: Aralen is taken by mouth with a glass of water or food. Dosage varies depending on the type of infection:

1. Malaria

• For Adults: The recommended dose is 500 mg on the same day each week.
• For Children: 5 mg base per kg of body weight; 10 mg base/kg may be taken in two divided doses, six hours apart.

2. Treatment of Acute Attack:

• For Adults: 1 g followed by an additional 500 mg after six to eight hours, and a single dose of 500 mg on each of two consecutive days.

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, liver and kidney disorders, cardiac muscle impairments (with rhythm disorders), blood and nervous system illnesses, retina and cornea illnesses, diabetes, chronic alcoholism. Do not use if you are allergic to chloroquine or any ingredients of the medication or if you have visual problems due to chloroquine, similar medications, or any other cause (unless it is decided that the benefits outweigh the risks in the treatment of malaria).

Side Effects:

• Most Common:
  • Appetite loss
  • Clumsiness
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling of whirling motion
  • Mild headache
  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Vomiting
• More Serious:
  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue)
  • Bizarre behavior
  • Change in color of skin or inside of mouth
  • Difficulty seeing and reading (missing words, letters, or parts of objects)
  • Fever or sore throat
  • Hair loss
  • Hearing loss
  • Mood changes
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Seizures
  • Sensitivity to sunlight
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Unusual weakness
  • Vision problems
  • Weight loss

If you experience any of these side effects, stop using Aralen and contact your doctor as soon as possible. Consult your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual.

Missed Dose: If you forget to take your dose, do so as soon as you remember. However, if it is too late or almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Resume your usual dose the next day at the regular time.

Overdose: Symptoms of overdose include headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness. Death due to respiratory distress may occur within 2 hours after intake. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage: Store at room temperature between 59-77°F (15-25°C) away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.