Malarquine tablets are an essential medication used to prevent and treat malaria, a serious infectious disease caused by a parasite transmitted by mosquito bites. These tablets contain the active ingredient chloroquine phosphate, which is available in 100 mg and 250 mg strengths. Chloroquine belongs to a class of drugs called antimalarials. This medication works by interfering with the life cycle of the malaria parasite within red blood cells, preventing its reproduction and eliminating it.
What are the ingredients in Malarquine?
Malarquine tablets contain the following active ingredient:
Chloroquine phosphate: 100 mg and 250 mg strengths.
The tablets also contain inactive ingredients.
Indications for Use
Malarquine tablets are primarily used for:
Treatment of malaria: caused by chloroquine-sensitive strains of Plasmodium (such as Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium ovale).
Prophylaxis of malaria: in travelers to areas where chloroquine is prevalent, it is effective against local strains.
Treatment of certain autoimmune diseases: such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, due to its immunomodulatory properties.
Treatment aims to eliminate the malaria parasite, relieve symptoms, prevent disease, or control the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
What are the dosages of Malarquine?
Malarquine tablets should be taken as directed by a physician. The dosage and duration of treatment vary greatly depending on the intended use (treatment or prevention), the patient's age, weight, and general health condition.
For the treatment of malaria: High doses are given initially, followed by lower doses over a few days. For example, for adults, the initial dose might be 1000 mg (base), followed by lower doses in the following days.
For the prevention of malaria: A lower dose is taken once a week, usually two weeks before traveling to a malaria-infected area and continued for several weeks after returning.
For autoimmune diseases: Lower doses are given for longer periods.
The tablet should be swallowed whole with food to minimize stomach upset. It is very important to adhere to the prescribed dose and duration of treatment, especially when treating malaria to ensure complete eradication of the parasite.
What are the side effects of Malarquine?
Malarquine tablets may cause some side effects, some of which are common and others can be serious, especially with long-term use or high doses:
Common side effects:
Gastrointestinal disturbances: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
Headache.
Dizziness.
Skin rash, itching.
Blurry vision or difficulty focusing (transient).