Generic Aralen (Chloroquine)

Aralen is an aminoquinoline antimalarial drug used to prevent and treat malaria, as well as to treat certain types of parasitic infections such as amebiasis. It works by interfering with the parasite’s ability to process and utilize heme, and is believed to damage the parasite’s genetic material (DNA), ultimately killing it.

Dosage and Administration
Aralen is taken orally with a full glass of water and can be taken with or without food to reduce stomach upset. Dosage varies depending on the condition being treated:

1. Malaria Prophylaxis (Prevention):

• Adults: 500 mg once weekly on the same day each week.

• Children: 5 mg base per kg of body weight once weekly (not to exceed adult dose).

2. Treatment of Acute Malaria Attack:

• Adults:

  • Initial dose: 1,000 mg (1g)

  • Followed by 500 mg after 6–8 hours

  • Then 500 mg once daily for the next two consecutive days

Note: This is general guidance. Always consult your physician for personalized dosing based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Precautions
Prolonged use may lead to blood disorders or muscle weakness. Vision changes (e.g., difficulty focusing, seeing halos, or blurred vision) should be reported immediately. Avoid tasks requiring clear vision (e.g., driving or operating heavy machinery) until you know how the medication affects you. Regular eye exams may be required during long-term treatment. Inform your doctor if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few days.

Contraindications
Do not use Aralen if you have any of the following:

• Known allergy to chloroquine or similar compounds

• Pre-existing retinal or visual field abnormalities

• Severe liver or kidney disease

• Cardiac conditions, especially those involving rhythm disturbances

• Blood or nervous system disorders

• Diabetes

• Chronic alcoholism

Aralen is not recommended for patients with visual disturbances unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks (as in life-threatening malaria cases).

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps

• Dizziness, mild headache

• Diarrhea

• Appetite loss

• Mild vision disturbances

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)

• Changes in vision or eye pain

• Unusual mood changes or bizarre behavior

• Ringing in the ears, hearing loss

• Seizures or fainting

• Hair loss or changes in skin/mouth color

• Sensitivity to sunlight

• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or fatigue

Drug Interactions
Aralen may interact with:

• Ampicillin – may reduce absorption

• Magnesium-containing antacids – reduce chloroquine effectiveness

• Cimetidine – may increase chloroquine levels

• Cyclosporine – increases blood levels of cyclosporine

• Kaolin – delays chloroquine absorption

Always inform your doctor of all the medications you’re taking to avoid potentially harmful interactions.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up. Resume your regular dosing schedule at the next dose.

Overdose
Chloroquine overdose can be life-threatening. Symptoms include:

• Drowsiness, headache, nausea

• Vomiting, vision disturbances

• Difficulty breathing, seizures

• Loss of consciousness, coma

• Death may occur within 2 hours of overdose from respiratory failure

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if overdose is suspected.

Storage
Store at room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F), away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date on the packaging.

Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance specific to your medical condition. We are not liable for the accuracy or use of this information, nor for any harm that may result from self-treatment or misuse of medications.