Generic Aralen (Chloroquine)

Introduction

Aralen is a tablet formulation that contains the antimalarial agent chloroquine phosphate. It is supplied in 250 mg and 500 mg strengths and belongs to the 4-aminoquinoline class of antimalarial drugs. The medication is primarily approved for the treatment and prophylaxis of malaria caused by susceptible Plasmodium species. In addition, chloroquine has established use for certain rheumatologic disorders, although the brand Aralen itself is mainly marketed for malaria. Off-label investigations have explored its activity against viral infections and certain dermatologic conditions, but these applications have not received regulatory approval.

What is Aralen?

Aralen is the generic formulation containing the active compound chloroquine. Chloroquine was first synthesized in the s and later introduced as a malaria treatment after World War II. The drug is marketed under brand names such as Aralen, Plaquenil, and Nivaquine in various countries. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost-effective treatment option. The tablets are film-coated, contain chloroquine phosphate as the active ingredient, and include standard excipients such as lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate.

How Aralen Works

Chloroquine exerts its antimalarial effect by accumulating in the acidic food-vacuum of the Plasmodium parasite. Inside this compartment, it interferes with heme polymerization, causing toxic free heme to accumulate and leading to parasite death. The drug’s lipophilic structure permits rapid oral absorption, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 2-4 hours. Chloroquine has a large volume of distribution and a long elimination half-life of approximately 1-2 weeks, allowing once-daily dosing for prophylaxis and short courses for treatment.

Conditions Treated with Aralen

• Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria (chloroquine-sensitive strains) - Chloroquine rapidly clears parasitemia by disrupting the parasite’s metabolic pathways.
• Uncomplicated Plasmodium vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae malaria - The drug is effective against these species when they remain chloroquine-sensitive.
• Chemoprophylaxis of malaria for travelers - A daily dose maintains therapeutic plasma levels that prevent parasite establishment following exposure in endemic regions.

The efficacy of chloroquine in these indications is supported by WHO treatment guidelines and decades of clinical experience.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Aralen

• Rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus - Chloroquine (and the closely related hydroxychloroquine) has immunomodulatory properties that reduce disease activity in some patients. Clinical studies have demonstrated modest benefit, but Aralen is not formally approved for these indications.
• COVID-19 - Early in the pandemic, chloroquine was investigated for antiviral activity. In vitro studies suggested inhibition of viral entry, yet large randomized trials did not confirm clinical benefit, and regulatory agencies have not approved it for COVID-19 treatment.
• Dermatologic conditions such as cutaneous lupus or porphyria cutanea tarda - Small case series have reported improvement with chloroquine therapy, but evidence remains limited.

These off-label applications should be pursued only under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider, as safety and efficacy have not been formally validated by regulatory bodies.

Is Aralen the Right Medication for You?

Aralen is appropriate for adults who require treatment of chloroquine-sensitive malaria or who need chemoprophylaxis while traveling to endemic areas. Ideal candidates include:

• Individuals with confirmed chloroquine-sensitive infection (as determined by local susceptibility testing).
• Travelers to regions where malaria parasites remain chloroquine-sensitive and who have no contraindications to the drug.

Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to chloroquine or related 4-aminoquinolines, pre-existing retinopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and pregnancy (chloroquine crosses the placenta and may affect fetal development). Caution is advised in patients with cardiac conduction disorders, epilepsy, or a history of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort
• Headache, dizziness
• Pruritus or mild skin rash

Rare

• Visual disturbances (blurred vision, photophobia)
• Neurological symptoms (tremor, paresthesia)
• Mild hepatotoxicity (elevated transaminases)

Serious

• Retinopathy, potentially irreversible, especially with long-term use or high cumulative doses
• Cardiac arrhythmias (QT prolongation, ventricular tachycardia)
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis)
• Hemolysis in patients with G6PD deficiency

Drug-drug interactions:

• Azithromycin, quinidine, and certain antiretrovirals can increase QT interval risk.
• Warfarin: chloroquine may potentiate anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
• Cytochrome P450 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) may raise chloroquine plasma concentrations.

Drug-food interactions:

• High-fat meals can delay absorption but do not significantly alter overall exposure.
• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may reduce oral bioavailability; separate dosing by at least 2 hours is advisable.

Patients should avoid alcohol excess while on chloroquine, as it may exacerbate central nervous system side effects and impair judgment.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard adult dosing for treatment:

• Uncomplicated malaria: 600 mg (base) of chloroquine phosphate in divided doses (e.g., 250 mg followed by 250 mg 6-8 hours later, then 500 mg 24 hours after the first dose).
• Chemoprophylaxis: 500 mg once daily, taken at the same time each day, beginning 1-2 weeks before possible exposure and continued for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area.

Missed dose: If a dose is missed and the next scheduled dose is more than 6 hours away, take the missed dose immediately. If the next dose is due within 6 hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double-dose.

Overdose: Symptoms may include profound nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Immediate medical attention is required. In the hospital, treatment involves supportive care, electrolyte correction, and monitoring of cardiac rhythm. Activated charcoal may be administered if presentation is early.

Practical precautions:

• Take tablets with a full glass of water; food may be taken concurrently.
• Avoid operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you, especially during the first dose.
• Alcohol should be limited, as it can exacerbate dizziness and gastrointestinal upset.

FAQ

• What should I do if I experience blurry vision while taking Aralen? If visual changes occur, stop the medication and seek ophthalmologic evaluation promptly. Persistent retinal toxicity can be irreversible, so early detection is essential.

• Can I travel with Aralen in my carry-on luggage? Yes, tablets can be transported in hand luggage. Keep them in the original packaging and carry a copy of the prescription or a pharmacy receipt for customs inspection if required.

• Does food affect the absorption of Aralen? A high-fat meal may delay absorption slightly, but overall bioavailability remains unchanged. You may take the tablet with or without food based on personal tolerance.

• What are the inactive ingredients in Aralen tablets? Typical excipients include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and colloidal silicon dioxide. These substances aid tablet formation and stability.

• Is chloroquine detectable in standard drug tests? Chloroquine is not commonly screened for in occupational drug testing panels. However, specialized analytical methods can detect it if specifically requested.

• How should Aralen be stored in hot climates? Store tablets below 30 °C (86 °F) and protect them from moisture. A cool, dry cabinet or a sealed pouch works well for tropical conditions.

• Can I use Aralen if I have a pacemaker? Chloroquine can affect cardiac conduction. Patients with implanted cardiac devices should discuss potential risks with their cardiologist before initiating therapy.

• What is the difference between chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine? Both belong to the 4-aminoquinoline class, but hydroxychloroquine contains a hydroxyl group, resulting in a slightly different safety profile, particularly a lower risk of retinal toxicity.

• Are there any special considerations for elderly patients? Older adults may have reduced renal clearance and a higher prevalence of cardiac conduction disorders, increasing the risk of toxicity. Dose adjustments and careful monitoring are advisable.

• Does Aralen interact with contraceptive pills? No clinically significant interaction has been reported between chloroquine and combined oral contraceptives. However, use of reliable contraception is recommended for all patients of reproductive age.

• Can I purchase Aralen if I live in a country where it is not licensed? Our online pharmacy can arrange discreet delivery from licensed overseas suppliers, subject to local import regulations. Patients should verify that importation complies with their national laws.

Glossary

Chloroquine phosphate

The salt form of chloroquine used in oral tablets; it supplies the active antimalarial molecule.

Retinopathy

Damage to the retina that can lead to visual impairment; associated with long-term, high-dose chloroquine use.

QT interval

A measurement on an electrocardiogram representing the time for ventricular depolarization and repolarization; prolongation can predispose to dangerous arrhythmias.

G6PD deficiency

An inherited enzyme deficiency that can cause hemolysis when exposed to certain drugs, including chloroquine.

Buying Aralen from Our Online Pharmacy

Aralen can be obtained through our online pharmacy, which partners with vetted, licensed international suppliers. The service offers:

• Affordable pricing - comparable to manufacturer cost, avoiding markup typical of domestic pharmacies.
• Verified quality - every batch is sourced from reputable manufacturers that comply with WHO Good Manufacturing Practices.
• Discreet, reliable delivery - packages are shipped in unmarked envelopes, with options for express (≈ 7 days) or standard airmail (≈ 3 weeks).
• Privacy-focused process - we operate as a pharmacy broker, ensuring patient confidentiality throughout ordering and fulfillment.

For patients who encounter limited availability, high out-of-pocket costs, or insurance barriers, our online pharmacy provides a secure, cost-effective alternative to access Aralen.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Aralen is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including any off-label use, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Readers are presumed to be competent adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy supplies Aralen to individuals who may experience restricted access via conventional pharmacies or insurance plans and who are seeking affordable generic options. Always discuss with your physician before initiating, altering, or stopping any medication.