Lariago Tablet

Lariago Tablet is a medication primarily used for the prevention and treatment of malaria. It belongs to a class of drugs called antimalarials.

Here's a breakdown of its description, uses, and important considerations:

Active Ingredient: The main active ingredient in Lariago Tablet is Chloroquine Phosphate.

How it Works: Chloroquine works by killing the malaria-causing parasite (Plasmodium) and stopping its spread within the body. It achieves this by accumulating in the parasite and disrupting its metabolic processes, particularly its ability to break down hemoglobin and detoxify harmful byproducts. This leads to the accumulation of toxic substances within the parasite, ultimately leading to its death.

Uses:

• Treatment of Malaria: Lariago is effective against certain strains of malaria parasites, including Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium malariae, as well as susceptible strains of Plasmodium falciparum. It helps alleviate symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, and fatigue.

• Prevention (Prophylaxis) of Malaria: It is prescribed for individuals traveling to malaria-prone areas to prevent them from contracting the disease.

• Other Uses (Less Common/Off-label): In some cases, Lariago may also be used for:

  • Intestinal amoebiasis (a parasitic infection of the intestines).

  • Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions like lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, and porphyria cutanea tarda, where it can help reduce inflammation.

Dosage and Administration:

• Doctor's Prescription is Essential: Lariago Tablet must be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific condition, the type of malaria, and the individual's response.

• With Food: It is generally recommended to take Lariago tablets with food to minimize the risk of stomach upset.

• Completion of Course: It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, as stopping early can lead to treatment failure and potential relapse or development of drug resistance.

• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double up on doses.

Important Precautions and Side Effects:

• Side Effects: Common side effects can include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, itchy skin, and hair loss. Some individuals may experience blurred vision, which requires caution while driving or operating machinery.

• Eye Examinations: Long-term use or high doses may require regular eye examinations due to the potential risk of vision problems.

• Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, as chloroquine can sometimes lower blood sugar levels.

• Liver and Kidney Issues: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, as dose adjustments may be necessary.

• Heart Conditions: Caution is advised for individuals with heart problems, as chloroquine can affect heart rhythm.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when prescribed by a doctor, prolonged use may pose risks. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

• Drug Interactions: It's important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, as chloroquine can interact with other drugs.

Lariago Tablet is a prescription-only medication, and its use should always be guided by a healthcare professional.