Efficacy of chloroquine in management of chikungunya: a clinical trial

Abstract

Chloroquine in a new role for control and cure of Chikungunya. To Evaluate efficacy of Chloroquine in treatment of Chikungunya. To Monitor Adverse Drugs reaction of Chloroquine. Severe epidemic of Chikungunya occurred in the year 2006 in city of Hyderabad and adjacent areas as well.  The diagnosis of Chikungunya was difficult. All the cases presenting to a private practice numbering around 193 were put on Chloroquine 10 mgs / kg either injectable, per oral form or syrups.  In addition to Chloroquine, patients were administered oral Paracetamol 500 mg, 4 times a day for 3 to 5 days. Choloroquine given for one week initially like anti malarial regimen later on tapering dosages 250 mgs tablets orally. Pain was assessed by Visually analogue scale and adverse drug reaction monitored by Noranjo scale. We can conclude that Chloroquine is very useful drug in the management of Chikungunya. It was found to be efficacious in management of severe arthritis pain as well as fever when combined with Paracetamol.