Devoquine

Devoquine: Effective Treatment for Malaria and Amebiasis

Devoquine, also known as chloroquine phosphate, is a powerful antimalarial and amebicidal medication. It is used to treat malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, as well as extraintestinal amebiasis. The drug is available in tablet form, each containing 500 mg of chloroquine phosphate, which is equivalent to 300 mg of the active chloroquine base.

How It Works

• Antimalarial Properties: Devoquine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is deposited in various tissues, including the liver, spleen, and kidneys. It works by inhibiting the growth of the malaria parasite within the red blood cells.
• Amebicidal Properties: For extraintestinal amebiasis, Devoquine is typically administered in combination with an effective intestinal amebicide. The recommended dosage for adults is 1 g (600 mg base) for two days, followed by 500 mg (300 mg base) daily for at least two to three weeks.

Important Information

• Dosage: The dosage for adults is as follows: an initial dose of 1 g (600 mg base), followed by an additional 500 mg (300 mg base) after six to eight hours, and a single dose of 500 mg (300 mg base) on each of two consecutive days.
• Contraindications: Devoquine should not be used to prevent relapses in patients with vivax or malariae malaria. Concomitant therapy with an 8-aminoquinoline compound is necessary for the radical cure of vivax and malariae malaria.
• Side Effects: While generally well-tolerated, Devoquine can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Rare but serious side effects include pancytopenia, aplastic anemia, and neuropsychiatric changes.

Storage and Handling

• Storage: Store Devoquine tablets in a tight, light-resistant container at room temperature (25°C or 77°F).
• Handling: Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. If ingested, seek medical attention immediately.

Devoquine is a reliable and effective treatment option for malaria and extraintestinal amebiasis. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication regimen.