A Review on chloroquine is widely used as antimalarial agent (KEY IJP************811)

• Sachin Shankar Vaidya ,Adinath Gorakh Ushir ,Prashant Gajanan Bhalerao

Abstract

Chloroquine, a synthetic antimalarial drug, has been a cornerstone in the treatment and prevention of malaria for over 70 years. Its ability to interfere with the digestion of hemoglobin in Plasmodium parasites has made it highly effective against Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, the main causative agents of malaria. However, widespread resistance, particularly in Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, has reduced its effectiveness, prompting the use of alternative therapies, such as artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). Despite the growing issue of resistance, chloroquine remains a valuable therapeutic option in areas where drug resistance is not yet widespread. This review explores the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of chloroquine, its clinical applications, including treatment and prophylaxis of malaria, the development of resistance, side effects, and its evolving role in malaria management. Furthermore, the paper discusses the future challenges of chloroquine use, including resistance mitigation strategies and the potential for combination therapies.