Brief Review of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity and Management

West J Emerg Med. 2020 Jun 3;21(4):760-763. doi: 10.5811/westjem.2020.5.47810.

Abstract

As of April 21, 2020, more than 2.5 million cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, have been reported in 210 countries and territories, with the death toll at 171,810. Both chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have gained considerable media attention as possible therapies, resulting in a significant surge in demand. In overdose, both medications can cause severe, potentially life-threatening effects. Here, we present a brief overview of the pharmacology of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, manifestations of toxicity, and treatment considerations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus / drug effects*
  • COVID-19
  • COVID-19 Drug Treatment
  • Chloroquine / adverse effects
  • Chloroquine / therapeutic use*
  • Coronavirus Infections / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxychloroquine / adverse effects
  • Hydroxychloroquine / therapeutic use*
  • Pandemics
  • Pneumonia, Viral / drug therapy*
  • SARS-CoV-2

Substances

  • Hydroxychloroquine
  • Chloroquine