Chloroquine
Chloroquine is an antiprotozoal medication primarily used for the prevention and treatment of malaria caused by Plasmodium species. It belongs to the 4-aminoquinoline class of drugs and works by concentrating within parasite cells. While it has been used for certain autoimmune conditions, its use for COVID-19 is not recommended due to safety concerns.
Chloroquine is an antimalarial drug that works by accumulating in parasite cells to treat and prevent malaria.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01BA01
- RxNorm
- 2393
- Generic
- Chloroquine
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention and treatment of malaria caused by susceptible Plasmodium species (P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and sensitive P. falciparum). Also used for extraintestinal amebiasis and sometimes prescribed off-label for lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Chloroquine is a 4-aminoquinoline that concentrates in the acid vesicles of parasites. It is believed to inhibit heme polymerase and other metabolic processes essential for parasite survival, ultimately leading to parasite death.
May cause serious side effects including cardiac arrhythmias and retinal toxicity with prolonged use. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity, retinal or visual field changes, and should be used with caution in patients with G6PD deficiency, liver disease, or seizure disorders. Resistance has developed in many P. falciparum strains.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy