DRUGS REVIEWER

CHLOROQUINE
(Antimalarials)

Chloroquine is the preferred treatment for any parasite that is sensitive to the
drug. But in many parts of the world, parasites are resistant to chloroquine, and the drug is no
longer an effective treatment.
P vivax and P ovale have dormant stages (hypnozoites) in the liver, and the treatment of an
episode of malaria must include eradication of these. The classic treatment is a 3-day course of
chloroquine, followed by a 14-day course of primaquine. A shorter course of 5 days of
primaquine, started with chloroquine, has been described but is associated with higher relapse
rates. However, this is adequate for gametocidal action, which prevents spread of malaria.

Mode of Action

 Chloroquine is used for malarial prophylaxis (as a suppressive) and in managing acute
attacks of malaria.
Contraindication

 Hypersensitivity to the drug content

Indication

 It is intended for the patient for treatment and management of malaria caused by P. vivax.
Side Effects
● Yellowing of skin, ear, and eyes
● Pain in the abdomen

PRIMAQUINE PHOSPHATE
(Antimalarials)
Mode of Action

 Primaquine acts by interfering with a part of the parasite (mitochondria) that is

responsible for supplying it with energy. Without energy the parasite dies. This stops the
infection from continuing and allows the person to recover.
Contraindication

 Hypersensitivity to the drug content

Indication

 It is intended to treat and prevent malaria for the patient.

Side Effects

● Nausea
● Vomiting
● Abdominal pain

PARACETAMOL SYRUP
(Antipyretics/Analgesics)
Mode of Action

 Paracetamol produces antipyresis and reduces fever by inhibiting the hypothalamic

heat-regulating center.
Contraindication

 Hypersensitivity to the drug content

Indication

 It is intended for treatment and management of fever and pain to the patient.
Side Effects

● Nausea
● Diarrhea
● Darken urine

ORS
(Antipyretics/Analgesics)
Mode of Action

 The efficacy of ORS is based on the ability of glucose to stimulate Na and fluid
absorption in the small intestine via a cyclic AMP-independent process.
Contraindication

 Hypersensitivity to the drug content

Indication
  It is intended to replenish patient’s body fluid and hydration.
Side Effects

 Dizziness

NURSING RESPONSIBILITY
(Generalized)

BEFORE:

 Review and confirm the physician’s order

 Check the medication order as well as double check the name of the medication before
preparing it
 Identify contraindication to patient like hypersensitivity to the drugs
 Prepare the medication once verified

DURING:

 Advice the guardian to take the medication as ordered for the child.
 Explain and provide health teachings about the medication like the importance of taking
the medication, its action and purpose.
 Instruct the patient and her guardian to take the medication exactly as prescribed with
food to prevent stomach upset
 Explain the possible side effects the patient may encounter.

AFTER:

 Teach the patient and guardian how to recognize signs of overdose, such as bruises, and
skin rashes
 Advised patient and guardian to visit RHU/doctor if condition worsens.