What it means
One of the oldest drugs for malaria, used with another drug for uncomplicated falciparum malaria. It can cause cinchonism (ringing in the ears, headache, nausea, blurred vision), low blood sugar, heart rhythm changes and serious blood problems. It must not be used for leg cramps, because the risks outweigh any benefit.
For the nurse
Give it with food. Teach the client to report ringing in the ears, bruising or bleeding, and signs of low blood glucose.
At a glance
| Drug class | antimalarial |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Qualaquin |
| Also written | Qualaquin |
Related terms
hypoglycemia
A blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.
infectious disease
An illness caused by a germ such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite.
chloroquine
An oral drug used to prevent and treat malaria in areas where the parasite is still sensitive to it.