Medicine & USMLE

Chloroquine

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Anti-Infective Drugs
  1. Vancomycin
  2. Metronidazole
  3. Penicillins
  4. Cephalosporins
  5. Macrolides
  6. Fluoroquinolones
  7. Aminoglycosides
  8. Tetracyclines
  9. Sulfonamides
  10. Rifampin
  11. Isoniazid
  12. Ethambutol
  13. Chloroquine
  14. Acyclovir
  15. Oseltamivir
  16. Azoles
  17. Nystatin
  18. Amphotericin B

Summary

Chloroquine is a medication used to treat both malaria and systemic lupus erythematosus. One side effect is GI upset, and if this occurs the patient may take the medication with food to minimize the symptoms. Chloroquine can also cause retinal damage, so encourage frequent eye exams and tell the patient to immediately report any change in vision.

Key Points

  • Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine
    • Mechanism
      • Antimalarial
        • Inhibits parasite replication by interfering with DNA to RNA transcription
    • Clinical Use
      • Malaria
        • May be used as prophylaxis, acute treatment, and long term prevention of relapse
      • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (hydroxychloroquine)
        • Has anti-inflammatory effects and can be used to treat skin and joint inflammation in SLE
    • Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
      • Retinal damage
        • Patient should receive regular eye exams every 6-12 months
      • GI disturbances
        • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia
        • May be taken with food to minimize GI upset