Chloroquine hydrochloride
Chloroquine hydrochloride (pronounced as klor-oh-kwin hy-droh-klawr-ide) is a pharmaceutical drug used primarily for the prevention and treatment of malaria. It is a member of the quinoline family of compounds.
Etymology
The term "chloroquine" is derived from the Greek words "chloros" meaning green and "quinine" meaning bitter, referring to the greenish hue and bitter taste of the compound. The "hydrochloride" part of the name refers to the presence of a hydrochloride salt, which enhances the drug's solubility in water.
Pharmacology
Chloroquine hydrochloride works by inhibiting the growth of Plasmodium parasites in the red blood cells. It is thought to interfere with the parasite's ability to break down and digest hemoglobin, thereby preventing the parasite from multiplying and causing disease.
Related Terms
- Antimalarial: A type of drug used to prevent or treat malaria.
- Prophylaxis: The prevention of disease.
- Plasmodium: A genus of parasitic protozoa, some species of which cause malaria.
- Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Side Effects
Like all medications, chloroquine hydrochloride can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include vision problems and heart issues.
See Also
- Hydroxychloroquine: A related antimalarial drug.
- Malaria: A disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, which is often treated with chloroquine hydrochloride.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chloroquine hydrochloride
- Wikipedia's article - Chloroquine hydrochloride
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