Description
Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg)
Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) is an antiparasitic medicine designed for the prevention and treatment of malaria. This medication works by killing the parasites responsible for causing the infection and halting their spread. To achieve the best results, Lariago-DS Tablet should be taken as advised by your doctor, ideally with food to minimize stomach upset. By diligently following the prescribed course, you can effectively manage and overcome malaria.
Uses Of ‘Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg)’
- Treatment of Malaria
- Prophylaxis of Malaria
- Prophylaxis of Vivax Malaria
- Management of Lupus Erythematosus
- Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases
Treatment of Malaria: Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) is primarily used to treat malaria, a severe infection transmitted through mosquito bites. It targets and eliminates the parasites in your bloodstream that cause this life-threatening illness.
Prophylaxis of Malaria: This medication can also be used as a preventive measure against malaria, especially when traveling to areas where malaria is prevalent. By taking Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) as prescribed, you reduce the risk of contracting malaria.
Prophylaxis of Vivax Malaria: Chloroquine is effective in preventing relapses of Vivax malaria. Regular use can help ensure that you remain free from this specific type of malaria.
Management of Lupus Erythematosus: Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) may be prescribed for the management of Lupus Erythematosus, an autoimmune disease. It helps in controlling the symptoms and providing relief to patients.
Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases: The tablet is also beneficial in treating some forms of rheumatic diseases, alleviating symptoms like pain and inflammation.
Safety & Precautions
- Consult your doctor before starting the medication.
- Take the medication with food to reduce stomach upset.
- Complete the full course even if you feel better.
- Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
- Monitor blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
- Regular eye examinations are recommended.
- Inform your doctor about any unexplained bruising or bleeding.
- Consult your doctor before consuming alcohol.
- Discuss potential risks if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
- Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be advised.
Side Effects
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them.
- Rash
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty focusing eyes
- Lowered blood sugar levels
- Unexplained bruising or bleeding
- Sore throat
- Fever
- General feeling of tiredness
FAQ
What is the primary use of Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg)?
Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) is primarily used for the prevention and treatment of malaria. It effectively kills the parasites responsible for causing the infection, halting its spread and aiding in recovery. Always use this medication as prescribed by your doctor to achieve the best results.
Should I take Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) with food?
Yes, it is advisable to take Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) with food. This helps in reducing the risk of stomach upset, ensuring that the medication is better tolerated by your body. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to take this medicine for optimal results.
Can I consume alcohol while on Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg)?
It is not known whether consuming alcohol with Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) is safe. Therefore, it is essential to consult your doctor before combining alcohol with this medication. Your doctor can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg)?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one as this can lead to complications.
Can Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) cause vision problems?
Yes, Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) may cause blurred vision or difficulty focusing your eyes. Because of this potential side effect, regular eye examinations are recommended while on treatment. If you experience any significant changes in your vision, consult your doctor promptly.
Is Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) safe during pregnancy?
Lariago-DS Tablet (Chloroquine 500mg) may be unsafe to use during pregnancy as limited studies in humans suggest potential risks. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive while on this medication.
Additional Information
Dosages of Chloroquine
Below is the detailed dosage information for Chloroquine, differentiated based on age groups and conditions:
| Condition | Dosage for Adults | Dosage for Pediatric Patients |
|---|---|---|
| Malaria Prophylaxis | 500 mg (300 mg base) weekly on the same day each week; begin 1-2 weeks before travel, during travel, and for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area | 5 mg/kg orally once per week, not to exceed 500 mg (300 mg base), on the same day each week; begin 1-2 weeks before travel, during travel, and for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area |
| Malaria Treatment (Acute Attack) | 1 g (600 mg base) orally, then 500 mg (300 mg base) orally after 6-8 hours, then 500 mg (300 mg base) orally at 24 hours and 48 hours after initial dose; Total dose of 2,500 mg (1,500 mg base) in 3 days |
Total dose 25 mg base/kg |
| Amebiasis, Extraintestinal | 1 g (600 mg base) orally once daily for 2 days, then 500 mg (300 mg base) once daily for 14-21 days | Not typically prescribed for pediatric patients |
It is important to adhere precisely to the prescribed dosage regimen, as improper usage can have serious repercussions.
Drug Interactions with Chloroquine
Knowing drug interactions is critical to avoid adverse effects. Chloroquine interacts with several drugs, as delineated below:
- Severe interactions with at least 11 drugs
- Serious interactions with at least 79 drugs
- Moderate interactions with at least 140 drugs
- Minor interactions with at least 99 drugs
Commonly Known Drug Interactions
Several key drugs interact with Chloroquine, and care needs to be taken when they are co-administered:
| Drug Class | Example | Interaction Type |
|---|---|---|
| Antacids and Kaolin | Magnesium hydroxide, Aluminum hydroxide | Reduces absorption of Chloroquine |
| H2 Blockers | Cimetidine | Inhibits metabolism of Chloroquine, increasing plasma level. Avoid use. |
| Hypoglycemics | Insulin, Oral antidiabetic drugs | Enhances effects, potentially requiring dose adjustment |
| Anti-arrhythmics | Amiodarone, Moxifloxacin | Increases risk of ventricular arrhythmias |
| Immunosuppressants | Cyclosporine | Increases serum levels; monitor closely |
| Antibiotics | Praziquantel, Ampicillin | Reduces bioavailability; maintain a 2-hour gap |
Dosage Adjustments and Considerations
Special considerations must be taken into account for specific patient conditions:
- Patients with hepatic disease, alcoholism, or concurrent administration with other hepatotoxic drugs should be monitored closely.
- Those with a history of auditory damage or epilepsy may require extra caution due to the risk of exacerbation.
- Chloroquine may induce hypoglycemia; therefore, frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels is recommended for patients on antidiabetic medications.
- In cases of prolonged therapy, periodic examinations of knee and ankle reflexes are crucial to detect muscular weakness early.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnant women and nursing mothers need to approach Chloroquine use with caution. Although observational studies show no significant increase in birth defects or spontaneous abortions at recommended doses, usage should still weigh the benefits against potential risks.
Chloroquine and its metabolite desethylchloroquine are excreted in breast milk, providing about 0.7% of the maternal starting dose to the infant. Separate prophylactic measures are recommended for the infant during breastfeeding.
Concomitant Use with Other Medications
Avoid the concomitant use of Chloroquine with the following medications where possible:
- Drugs known for retinal toxicity, such as Tamoxifen
- Immunosuppressants like Cyclosporine: Monitor serum levels closely.
- Arrhythmogenic drugs like Amiodarone and Moxifloxacin
- Antibiotics such as Praziquantel and Ampicillin: Maintain a two-hour gap between doses.
Monitoring and Follow-up
Several key monitoring protocols enhance patient safety during Chloroquine therapy. They include:
- Baseline ophthalmological examination should be performed within the first year of starting the treatment. This includes best corrected distance visual acuity (BCVA), an automated threshold visual field (VF) of the central 10 degrees, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).
- Those with significant risk factors should undergo annual examinations, while those without such risk factors may defer exams for up to 5 years.
- Patients of Asian descent may require visual field testing of the central 24 degrees instead of the central 10 degrees.
Risk Factors and Long-term Effects
Long-term use and high doses of Chloroquine can lead to:
- Cardiomyopathy, sometimes fatal
- Conduction disorders such as bundle branch block or AV heart block
- Retinopathy, which includes irreversible retinal damage
- Acute extrapyramidal disorders
- Potential gene mutation and cancer risks, though data in humans are insufficient
Regular patient monitoring can mitigate some of these risks, allowing for the prompt discontinuation of Chloroquine if adverse symptoms develop.
Conclusion
Careful attention to dosage, monitoring of potential interactions, and precautionary measures are essential aspects of the effective and safe use of Chloroquine in treating and preventing malaria and amebiasis. By following these guidelines and staying informed, healthcare providers can maximize patient outcomes while minimizing risks associated with this medication.
For personalized medical advice, always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. For queries about drug interactions, visit the RxList Drug Interaction Checker or contact the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Sources: Consulted Chloroquine resources include medical journals, professional pharmacological references, and FDA guidelines.
