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Aralen (Chloroquine) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Aralen?

Aralen is a chloroquine-containing antiviral pill approved for the prevention and treatment of Malaria in adults and children. It belongs to the antimalarial/antiviral drug class and is listed on the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) register. The tablet is available in 250 mg and 500 mg strengths for oral use.

Who Should Use Aralen?

• Adults and children over 6 months needing malaria prophylaxis or treatment.
• Travelers to malaria-endemic regions in Southern Africa.
• Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum or P. vivax.

How Does It Work?

Aralen interferes with the parasite’s ability to digest haemoglobin inside red blood cells. By raising the internal pH of the parasite’s food vacuole, it blocks a critical detoxification step, leading to parasite death. The drug’s antiviral activity is thought to stem from similar pH-dependent mechanisms that hinder viral replication inside host cells.

Why Choose Aralen?

• Established efficacy: Widely used for decades with a solid safety record.
• Convenient dosing: Once-daily tablets simplify prophylaxis schedules.
• Cost-effective: Generic formulation offers affordable protection compared with brand-only options.

Note: Use of Aralen for conditions other than malaria is off-label and should only be considered after consulting a qualified health professional.

Recommended Dosage

• Prophylaxis: 250 mg taken once daily, starting 1-2 days before entering a malaria-risk area and continuing for 4 weeks after leaving.
• Treatment: 500 mg at h, then 500 mg at 6 h, 24 h, and 48 h (total 2 g).

How to Take

• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
• Can be taken with or without food; however, a meal may reduce stomach upset.

Missed Dose

• Prophylaxis: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue with the regular schedule.
• Treatment: If more than 12 h have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the next scheduled dose; do not double-dose.

Overdose

• Call emergency services (112) or go to the nearest hospital.
• Symptoms may include visual disturbances, cardiac arrhythmias, or Seizures.

Special Populations

• Elderly: No dosage adjustment needed, but monitor cardiac function.
• Children (≥6 months): Use weight-based dosing (10 mg/kg per day) for prophylaxis.
• Renal or hepatic impairment: No routine dose change, but clinical monitoring is advised.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid taking Aralen with large amounts of antacids or calcium-supplement tablets, as they may reduce absorption.
• No known interaction with moderate coffee or alcohol consumption, but excessive alcohol should be avoided during treatment.

Precautions and Warnings

• Screen for known hypersensitivity to chloroquine or related compounds.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiac conduction disorders, Diabetes, or Psoriasis.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal Pain
• Headache

Less Common Side Effects

• Itching or rash
• Dizziness
• Visual blurring

Serious Side Effects

• Cardiac arrhythmias (seek immediate care)
• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (call emergency services)
• Hemolysis in G6PD-deficient individuals (stop drug, seek medical help)

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Known hypersensitivity to chloroquine or any tablet component.
• Pre-existing retinal or visual field disorders.
• Severe liver disease (Child-Pugh C).

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in the original container, tightly closed.
• Store at 20-25 °C (68-77 °F); protect from excess heat and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Aralen Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Aralen to start protecting against malaria?

Protective blood levels are reached within 2 days of daily dosing; therefore, start the regimen 1-2 days before travel.

Can I take Aralen if I am pregnant?

Aralen is classified as Category C in South Africa; it should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, and after a risk-benefit discussion with a clinician.

What should I do if I experience visual disturbances?

Stop the medication and seek urgent medical evaluation, as retinal toxicity can be irreversible.

Does Aralen interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Ibuprofen and paracetamol are generally safe, but avoid concurrent use of high-dose aspirin due to increased cardiac risk.

Is it safe to travel with Aralen in my luggage?

Yes, keep the tablets in their original packaging, clearly labeled, and store them in your carry-on to avoid temperature extremes.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Aralen?

Moderate alcohol consumption does not usually affect efficacy, but excessive drinking may increase the risk of side-effects such as dizziness.

What happens if I miss several doses during a trip?

Contact a healthcare professional promptly; you may need a loading dose to re-establish protection.

How is resistance to chloroquine monitored in South Africa?

SAHPRA collaborates with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) to conduct periodic resistance surveillance; clinicians are advised to follow local treatment guidelines.

Glossary

• Antimalarial: A drug that prevents or treats malaria infection.
• QT interval: A measurement on an ECG that reflects the heart’s electrical repolarization; prolongation can lead to dangerous arrhythmias.
• G6PD deficiency: A genetic enzyme disorder that can cause hemolysis when exposed to certain medications, including chloroquine.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Aralen (chloroquine) and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Off-label use, dosing adjustments, and management of side effects should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider. Our online pharmacy service offers convenient access to approved medicines; however, users are responsible for ensuring the suitability of any medication for their personal health circumstances. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any treatment regimen.