Cerona 0.5mg Tablet (Chloroquine): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Severe abdominal pain
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe headache with visual changes
- Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- Seizures or convulsions
- Unusual fatigue or bruising
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is cerona 0.5mg tablet used for?
Chloroquine is an antimalarial and DMARD used to treat malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. It works by killing malaria parasites and reducing inflammation. It is taken orally, usually with food, and requires regular eye check-ups for long-term use.
- Generic Name: Chloroquine
- Manufacturer: Ceras Pharmaceutical
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 cerona 0.5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरोक्वीन नामक एंटीमलेरियल और डीएमएआरडी दवा है। इसका उपयोग मलेरिया के इलाज और रोकथाम के लिए किया जाता है। यह रूमेटॉयड आर्थराइटिस और ल्यूपस जैसी ऑटोइम्यून बीमारियों में भी प्रभावी है। यह मलेरिया परजीवी को मारकर और सूजन को कम करके काम करती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और धुंधली दृष्टि शामिल हैं। लंबे समय तक उपयोग से आंखों की रेटिना को नुकसान हो सकता है, इसलिए नियमित नेत्र परीक्षण आवश्यक है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में दौरे, हृदय समस्याएं और रक्त विकार शामिल हैं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। इसे भोजन या दूध के साथ लें ताकि पेट की जलन कम हो। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको आंख, जिगर, गुर्दे या दिल की कोई समस्या है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। लंबे समय तक उपयोग करने पर नियमित आंखों की जांच कराएं।
💊 cerona 0.5mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Malaria (treatment)","description":"Used to treat uncomplicated malaria caused by chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium species.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Malaria (prophylaxis)","description":"Used for prevention of malaria in travelers to endemic areas with chloroquine-sensitive malaria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Extraintestinal amebiasis","description":"Used as an adjunct in the treatment of amebic liver abscess and other extraintestinal amebic infections.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Rheumatoid arthritis","description":"Used as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) for mild to moderate rheumatoid arthritis.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Systemic lupus erythematosus","description":"Used to manage skin and joint manifestations of SLE.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Discoid lupus erythematosus","description":"Used for chronic discoid lupus erythematosus skin lesions.","evidence":"Established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Porphyria cutanea tarda","description":"Sometimes used off-label to reduce porphyrin levels.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sarcoidosis","description":"Occasionally used off-label for cutaneous sarcoidosis.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic urticaria","description":"Rarely used off-label for refractory chronic urticaria.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Malaria
Also treats: Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Discoid lupus erythematosus, Extraintestinal amebiasis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chloroquine |
| Brand Name | Amloquin DS 250mg Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Ceras Pharmaceutical |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | OPHTHAL |
| Action Class | Antimalarial- Aminoquinolines |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization recommends chloroquine for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium species. However, due to widespread resistance, its use is limited to areas where the parasite is known to be susceptible. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research recommends chloroquine for malaria treatment in areas where Plasmodium falciparum is chloroquine-sensitive. It is also recommended for prophylaxis in specific high-risk groups. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Chloroquine exerts its antimalarial effect by concentrating in the acidic food vacuole of the malaria parasite, where it inhibits heme polymerase. This enzyme normally converts toxic heme (ferriprotoporphyrin IX) into inert hemozoin. Inhibition leads to accumulation of toxic heme, which damages the parasite's membrane and causes its death. In autoimmune diseases, chloroquine increases the pH of lysosomes and endosomes, interfering with antigen processing and presentation. It also inhibits Toll-like receptor signaling and reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6. Additionally, it has mild immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take cerona 0.5mg tablet
Strength: Chloroquine 0.5 mg immediate-release tablet.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dosage of this medicine varies depending on the indication. For malaria treatment, a common regimen is an initial dose of 600 mg base (approximately 1 g chloroquine phosphate), followed by 300 mg base (approximately 500 mg chloroquine phosphate) at 6, 24, and 48 hours. For malaria prophylaxis, 300 mg base (approximately 500 mg chloroquine phosphate) is taken once weekly. For autoimmune diseases, the usual dose is 150-300 mg base daily. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects, especially ocular and cardiac toxicity. Dose should be individualized by a clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Monitor renal function closely. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Monitor liver function closely. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose for malaria treatment is 600 mg base (approximately 1 g chloroquine phosphate) for the first day, then 300 mg base daily. For autoimmune diseases, the maximum daily dose is 300 mg base. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of cerona 0.5mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Amiodarone | Major | |
| Mefloquine | Major | |
| Digoxin | Major | |
| Metformin | Major | |
| Cyclosporine | Major | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Moderate | |
| Kaolin | Moderate | |
| Paracetamol | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Amiodarone
- Mefloquine
- Digoxin
- Metformin
- Cyclosporine
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Cimetidine
- Rifampicin
- Antacids
- Kaolin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity and worsen gastrointestinal side effects. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to chloroquine or any component of the formulation","Pre-existing retinopathy or visual field changes","Porphyria","Concomitant use with mefloquine","Severe hepatic impairment","Severe renal impairment (unless benefits outweigh risks)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Regular ophthalmologic examinations are essential to detect early retinopathy.","Use with caution in patients with G6PD deficiency due to risk of hemolysis.","May exacerbate psoriasis and porphyria.","Can cause QT prolongation; use with caution in patients with cardiac disease.","May impair mental alertness; avoid driving or operating machinery until effects are known.","Not recommended for long-term use in children for autoimmune conditions.","May cause severe hypoglycemia; monitor blood glucose in diabetic patients.","Avoid in patients with a history of epilepsy as it may lower seizure threshold."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Chloroquine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of chloroquine is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. Symptoms include headache, drowsiness, visual disturbances, cardiovascular collapse, convulsions, and cardiac arrest. Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment includes gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and supportive care. Intravenous diazepam may be used to control seizures. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may be considered but are not very effective due to extensive tissue binding. Seek emergency care immediately if overdose is suspected.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment. Take the tablet with food or a glass of milk to minimize stomach irritation. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase the risk of liver problems. Inform your doctor if you have a history of eye disease, liver or kidney problems, G6PD deficiency, or epilepsy. Regular eye check-ups are necessary if you are on long-term therapy. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or blurred vision. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not use this medicine for any other condition without consulting your doctor.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more prone to side effects, especially ocular and cardiac toxicity. Regular monitoring of eye, heart, liver, and kidney function is advised. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor. This medicine is generally safe for malaria prevention and treatment during pregnancy, but high doses for autoimmune conditions should be used with caution.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with certain anesthetic agents and affect heart rhythm. Your doctor may advise temporary discontinuation.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding or interact with certain dental anesthetics. Your dentist may take precautions.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
If you experience dizziness or blurred vision, avoid exercise that requires balance or coordination. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It is advisable to inform your employer if your job involves such tasks.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. For malaria, complete the full course. For autoimmune diseases, your doctor will determine the duration of therapy based on your response and side effects.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine can lead to irreversible retinal damage, so regular eye examinations are crucial. It may also cause muscle weakness, hearing loss, and skin pigmentation. Periodic monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is recommended. The risk of toxicity increases with higher cumulative doses.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can complement medicine for chronic pain.
Evidence: Well-establishedAnti-inflammatory diet may help autoimmune conditions.
Evidence: Limited💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with most vaccines. However, if you are on long-term therapy for autoimmune diseases, consult your doctor about the timing of live vaccines.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. If you are traveling across time zones, adjust your dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep it in your carry-on luggage. Check customs regulations for restricted medicines before you travel.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: For malaria, fever usually subsides within 24-48 hours. For autoimmune diseases, it may take 4-12 weeks to see full effects.
A: Yes, taking it with food or milk reduces stomach upset.
A: Avoid alcohol, grapefruit, and antacids within 4 hours of taking this medicine.
A: It is generally considered safe for malaria treatment and prophylaxis during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Chloroquine is safe for everyone.
Fact: Chloroquine is not safe for individuals with certain conditions like retinopathy or porphyria. It requires a prescription and regular monitoring. - Myth: Chloroquine can be used to treat COVID-19.
Fact: Chloroquine is not approved for COVID-19 and its use for this purpose is not supported by robust clinical evidence. - Myth: You can stop taking chloroquine once you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent recurrence and resistance.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chloroquine phosphate 250 mg tablet
- Chloroquine phosphate 500 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Lariago
- Resochin
- Malarquin