When you hear chloroquine, a synthetic antimalarial drug first developed in the 1930s and widely used during World War II to prevent and treat malaria. Also known as Cq, it was once the go-to medicine for stopping malaria before parasites took over the body. It’s not just a malaria drug — it’s been tested for lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and even viral infections. But its reputation has shifted. What worked in the 1950s doesn’t always work today, and the side effects can be serious.
Chloroquine works by interfering with how malaria parasites digest hemoglobin in red blood cells. But over time, the parasites adapted. Now, in most parts of the world, hydroxychloroquine, a closely related compound with a slightly safer profile, is preferred over chloroquine for long-term use. Also known as Plaquenil, it’s still used for autoimmune conditions like lupus because it calms the immune system without wiping it out. Still, both drugs carry risks. Heart rhythm problems, especially when mixed with other medications like antibiotics or antidepressants, can be life-threatening. That’s why you never take chloroquine without a doctor’s oversight — even if you’re buying it online as a "cheap alternative."
Chloroquine isn’t just about malaria anymore. It’s a reminder of how drugs evolve — from miracle cures to cautionary tales. You’ll find posts here that dig into how it compares to other antimalarials like mefloquine, why bioequivalence testing matters when generics enter the market, and how drug interactions with common painkillers or supplements can turn a safe treatment dangerous. Some articles even look at how cultural attitudes shape whether people trust generic versions of old drugs like this.
Whether you’re researching for yourself, a loved one, or just curious about how a 90-year-old drug still affects modern medicine, this collection gives you the real talk — no hype, no fluff. You’ll see what works, what doesn’t, and what you should never do without professional advice.
Hydroxychloroquine (Hsquin) is still used for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, but its role has shrunk dramatically. This guide compares it with safer, more effective alternatives like methotrexate, artemisinin combos, and azithromycin - and explains when to avoid it.
Read More