Part Two of Aralen Information, Focusing on Side Effects, Discontinuation or Withdrawal Effects, and Additional Information

This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.

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What are the possible side effects of chloroquine?

  • Stop taking chloroquine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (flushing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; vision problems; rash; itching; or fever).
  • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chloroquine and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing;
    • hearing loss or ringing in the ears;
    • diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain or upset, vomiting, or loss of appetite;
    • muscle weakness; or
    • a rash.
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect chloroquine?

  • Cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB) may increase the effects of chloroquine, which could lead to toxicity. Do not take cimetidine without first talking to your doctor.
  • Kaolin and magnesium trisilicate may decrease the effects of chloroquine. These ingredients can be found in products such as Kaopectate Advanced Formula, Parepectolin, K-Pek, K-C, Kaodene Non-Narcotic, Kao-Spen, Gaviscon, and others.
  • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chloroquine. Do not take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, without frist talking to your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has more information about chloroquine written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Limitations and the Source of Our Online Medication Information Database

Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.

Full public license and copyright information is available separately from Cerner Multum, Inc.

Version: 2.04. Revision date: 7/7/03.

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