Chloroquine & Proguanil Side Effects

Oct 14, 2010 | By Gregory Waryasz, MD, CSCS

Chloroquine and proguanil are both types of antimalarial medication. Chloroquine is most effective against the Plasmodium falciparium malaria species when it is in the blood. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of chloroquine, it is also used for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, according to "Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology." Proguanil, brand name Paludrine, is indicated for the prevention of malaria, according to the manufacturer. Proguanil is usually given with either atovaquone or chloroquine.

Serious Side Effects

A serious side effect of any medication is anaphylaxis, or an extreme allergic reaction characterized by a weak pulse, trouble breathing and hives, among other symptoms. Proguanil can also cause a fever that needs to be monitored by a physician. Chloroquine can cause vision or hearing changes, heart arrythmias -- irregular heart beats -- and seizures, according to Epocrates Online. Both medications can cause unusual thoughts or personality changes, jaundice -- or yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes -- and low platelet counts that leads to easy bruising and bleeding.

Common Side Effects

General side effects of most medications include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and rash. Proguanil can also cause mouth sores and a sore throat, and chloroquine can cause skin pigmentation changes. Both medications can cause hair loss.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Chloroquine is considered a class "C" drug during pregnancy, which means it should be used with caution while pregnant. It is probably safe during lactation, according to Epocrates Online. Proguanil is considered a class "B" drug during pregnancy, which means that it is probably safe during pregnancy, and according to the Drug Safety Society website, is also probably safe during lactation.