Drug interactions
Chloroquine + Procainamide
Severity: Major
Chloroquine and Procainamide: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Both drugs prolong the QT interval, and procainamide is a class IA antiarrhythmic with a known torsades risk. Combined use markedly increases the chance of life-threatening arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloroquine and Procainamide can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive QTc prolongation and sodium channel and potassium channel effects.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use and choose an alternative antimalarial or antiarrhythmic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG continuously or frequently and keep electrolytes normal.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Chloroquine
- Chloroquine + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloroquine with Procainamide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloroquine and Procainamide can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Both drugs prolong the QT interval, and procainamide is a class IA antiarrhythmic with a known torsades risk. Combined use markedly increases the chance of life-threatening arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Chloroquine and Procainamide?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent use and choose an alternative antimalarial or antiarrhythmic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG continuously or frequently and keep electrolytes normal.
What other medicines interact with Chloroquine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloroquine with, for example, Cisapride, Dofetilide, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Chloroquine page.
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