Drug interactions
Chloroquine + Propafenone
Severity: Major
Chloroquine and Propafenone: 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
Chloroquine may raise propafenone levels through CYP2D6 inhibition, and both drugs affect cardiac conduction and QT interval. The combination increases the risk of serious ventricular arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloroquine and Propafenone 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.
Chloroquine belongs to Anti Parasitic; Propafenone belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
CYP2D6 inhibition by chloroquine raises propafenone exposure, with additive QT and conduction effects.
What to do
Avoid if possible; otherwise monitor ECG for QRS and QT prolongation and reduce the propafenone dose as needed.
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
Other interactions of Propafenone
- Dofetilide + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nilotinib + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nirmatrelvir + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Pimozide + Propafenone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloroquine with Propafenone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloroquine and Propafenone 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. Chloroquine may raise propafenone levels through CYP2D6 inhibition, and both drugs affect cardiac conduction and QT interval. The combination increases the risk of serious ventricular arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Chloroquine and Propafenone?
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 if possible; otherwise monitor ECG for QRS and QT prolongation and reduce the propafenone dose as needed.
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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