Aralen

Common Name: chloroquine phosphate

How does Aralen work?

This medication is used to treat and prevent attacks of malaria. It works by killing malaria parasites, most likely by damaging their DNA (genetic material). This medication is also used to treat another condition caused by parasites known as extraintestinal amebiasis. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Aralen?

Prevention of malaria: For adults, the dose of chloroquine is usually 500 mg once a week, taken on exactly the same day every week. To prevent malaria, start taking the tablets at least two weeks before leaving for an area where malaria is a risk and continue taking the tablets for eight weeks after your return. Children's doses are based on body weight. Treatment of malaria: For adults, treatment usually begins with a 1 g dose followed by 500 mg after six to eight hours. This is followed by a single dose of 500 mg on each of two consecutive days. This makes for a three-day total dose of 2.5 g. Children's doses are based on body weight. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. Chloroquine may be taken either before or after meals. It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Aralen come in?

Each white, round tablet, with "W" on one side, scored on the other, contains chloroquine 150 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium phosphate (dibasic, dihydrate), cornstarch, magnesium stearate, and talc. This medication does not contain gluten, lactose, sucrose, or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Aralen?

Chloroquine should not be used by anyone who: has visual problems due to chloroquine or similar medications (unless in the treatment of malaria it is decided that the benefits outweigh the risks) is allergic to any of the ingredients of the medication

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Aralen?

Epilepsy: Chloroquine may increase the risk of seizures for those with epilepsy. Liver disease: Since this medication accumulates in the liver, it should be used with caution by people who have liver disease or alcoholism or in cases where other medications potentially toxic to the liver are used. Porphyria: Chloroquine may increase the frequency of episodes of porphyria; therefore, patients with this condition should be cautious while taking chloroquine. Psoriasis: Chloroquine has caused severe attacks of psoriasis for those who already have this condition. Stomach or intestinal disease: Patients with stomach or intestinal disease should be cautious while taking chloroquine as it may cause stomach or intestinal irritation. Visual problems: If you notice any signs of abnormality in your vision (e.g., symptoms such as light flashes and streaks) seek immediate medical attention. If chloroquine is found to be the cause, stop taking it. Pregnancy: Avoid using this medication during pregnancy except when the benefits are expected to outweigh the risks. Breast-feeding: Chloroquine passes into breast milk. Women should not breast-feed while taking this medication. Depending on the circumstances, either discontinue nursing or stop taking chloroquine.