Chloroquine
Brand: Nivaquine / generic chloroquine
Antimalarial
4-aminoquinoline
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 30 days |
| Clearance Route | hepatic |
| Active Metabolites | yes |
| Notes | Very large apparent Vd; prolonged terminal half-life (weeks). Accumulates in tissues and retina. Use ideal body weight for high doses. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Moderate
Adverse Effects:
Pruritus, GI upset, headache, visual disturbances, rare retinopathy, QT prolongation at high dose or IV use.
Contraindications:
Pre-existing retinopathy; history of serious chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine-induced retinal damage.
Precautions:
Baseline and periodic ophthalmologic assessment in long-term use; caution in cardiac disease, electrolyte disturbance or concomitant QT-prolonging drugs.