Dr. Kuldeep Meena MBBS, MD , Cardiology, Neurology, Pediatrics, Dermatology, Pulmonology, Nephrology, General Physician, Other, Infectious Disease, Emergency Medicine, Allergy and Immunology, Internal Medicine, Multispeciality

Yes, long-term use of Malaquin may cause weight loss but this occurs rarely. It is a rare side effect of Malaquin. However, if you are experiencing unusual rapid weight loss and you are in doubt that Malaquin is causing weight loss then discuss with your doctor instantly. 

Dr. Abhijit MBBS , General Physician

No, Malaquin should not be discontinued without doctors advice. You are recommended to always consult a doctor before discontinuing this medicine.

Dr. K. M. Bhatt MBBS, PG Dip , Cardiology, Pediatrics, General Surgery, General Physician, Emergency Medicine, Physical Medicine

Yes, Malaquin may cause anemia as well as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) but it occurs in a few cases only. It is a rare side effect of this drug. If you are experiencing tiredness or shortness of breath or bleeding then discuss with your doctor without further delay.

Dr. Chinmaya Bal MBBS , General Physician

Malaquin is a brand name of chloroquine and it comes in the form of a tablet, capsule, injection, and oral suspension. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antimalarials which have amebicidal activity. It is a prescription drug that is used in the treatment of malaria which is a vector-borne infectious disease caused by parasites Plasmodium species. These are Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium vivax. Apart from this Malaquin is also used in the treatment of extraintestinal amebiasis which is the protozoal infection caused by parasite Entamoeba histolytica. It is also used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) both are autoimmune diseases which causes inflammation and pain. Malaquin is also used off-label for the treatment of porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) a blood disorder that affects the skin.

Dr. R.K Singh MBBS , Diabetology

Yes, Malaquin is safe to use, if taken in a prescribed amount for a specified time as advised by the doctor. However, few side effects have been observed at a regular dose such as a headache, nausea, and vomiting. Do not hesitate to inform your doctor if you are facing any of the above side effects.