Chloroquine

Chloroquine is a medication used to prevent or treat malaria infections. It is also used to treat another type of infection known as amebiasis. The drug works by killing the parasites that cause these infections. It comes in the form of a tablet and should be taken with food. The most commonly reported side effects include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.

What Is Chloroquine?

Chloroquine phosphate (Aralen®) is a prescription medication licensed to prevent or treat certain types of malaria infections. It is also used to treat another infection, called amebiasis.
 
(Click What Is Chloroquine Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, chloroquine can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
 
Some of the possible side effects seen with chloroquine include but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vision problems, including blurred vision
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or other hearing problems
  • Skin rash
  • Hair loss or changes in hair color.
     
(Click Side Effects of Chloroquine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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