Resochin tablets are used to treat and prevent malaria, a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. It is also used to treat amebiasis, a parasitic infection of the intestines. Resochin may also be used to treat certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

The following are some common uses and indications of Resochin Tablet

  1. Malaria Treatment: Resochin tablet was historically a first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and some strains of Plasmodium falciparum in regions where the parasite was sensitive to the drug. However, resistance to Resochin tablet has developed in many areas, and it is no longer effective against certain strains of the malaria parasite.
  2. Malaria Prophylaxis: Resochin tablet can also be used as a prophylactic medication for individuals traveling to regions where malaria is prevalent. It was taken before, during, and after travel to prevent infection. However, due to the development of drug-resistant malaria, other antimalarial medications are now preferred for prophylaxis.
  3. Amebic Liver Abscess: Resochin tablet may be used in combination with other medications like metronidazole for the treatment of amebic liver abscess, which is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica.

Off-label Uses of Resochin Tablet

  1. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus: Resochin tablets are sometimes prescribed off-label to manage symptoms of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain in some patients.
  2. COVID-19: Resochin tablet gained significant attention in early 2020 as a potential treatment for COVID-19. However, subsequent research has shown mixed results, and it is no longer recommended for routine use in COVID-19 treatment due to concerns about safety and efficacy.
  3. Antiviral Agent (for HIV and Dengue ): Resochin tablets might have antiviral properties against certain viruses. This has led to research on its potential use against viruses like HIV, dengue, and others.
Resochin Tablet Uses and Indications

What is Resochin?

Resochin is one of the leading brands of Chloroquine Phosphate, manufactured and marketed by Bayer Schering Pharma.

Resochin Tablet’s Alternatives : Other Similar Brands

The following are some alternative brands of Resochin and their manufacturers.

  • Devoquine : Don Valley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Efroquine : Efroze Chemical Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Klarquine : Genix Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Nevaquin-P : Sanofi Aventis (Pakistan) Ltd.
  • Quine : Libra Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Wilquine : Wilshire Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Eroqueen : Eros Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • Geniquin : Genera Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • Neoquin : Neo Medix, Pakistan.
  • Pharoquine : Pharmacare Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Resochin : Available Formulations and Strengths

Presently, Resochin is available in Tablet form.

Resochin Tablet : 250mg strength.

Who Should Not Use Resochin Tablet? – Contraindications

Resochin tablets should not be used in certain situations due to potential risks and interactions with other medications or medical conditions.

  1. Hypersensitivity or Allergy: Individuals who have had an allergic reaction to Chloroquine or any of its components should not use Resochin tablets.
  2. G6PD Deficiency: People with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency should avoid Resochin tablets, as it can lead to hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) and exacerbate this condition.
  3. Porphyria: Resochin tablets can worsen porphyria, a group of rare genetic disorders affecting enzymes in the heme biosynthesis pathway.
  4. Heart Conditions: Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, such as arrhythmias or prolonged QT interval, as the Resochin tablet can potentially exacerbate these conditions.
  5. Liver Disease: Individuals with severe liver disease may need dosage adjustments or may be advised not to take Resochin.
  6. Kidney Disease: Those with severe kidney disease may require dosage adjustments or may be advised against using Resochin.
  7. Neurological Disorders: People with a history of epilepsy or other neurological disorders should use Resochin tablets cautiously, as it can potentially exacerbate these conditions.
  8. Psoriasis: Resochin tablet may worsen psoriasis or trigger a flare-up.
  9. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of Resochin tablets during pregnancy and breastfeeding may carry risks to the developing fetus or nursing infant. The potential benefits should be weighed against the potential risks in consultation with a healthcare provider.
  10. Ocular Disease: Long-term use of Resochin tablets can lead to retinal toxicity, potentially causing vision problems. Regular ophthalmic (eye) examinations are advised for those on prolonged Resochin tablet treatment.

What is the Recommended Daily Dosage of Resochin Tablet?

Resochin Tablet Dose for Malaria Prophylaxis:

  • Adults: Two tablets of 250mg, Once a week.
  • 2 weeks before travel to an area where malaria is common and continuing for 8 weeks after leaving the area.

Resochin Tablet Dose for Treatment of Malaria:

  • Adults: The first dose is Four tablets of 250mg (1,000 mg) on day 1
  • followed by Two tablets of 250mg (500 mg) for 3 days.

Resochin Tablet Dose for Treatment of Amebiasis:

  • Adults: Two tablets of 250mg (500mg) twice a day for 10 days.

Resochin Tablet Dose for Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases:

  • Adults: 1 – 2 tablets of 250mg daily, depending on the severity of the disease.

How Resochin Works?

Resochin tablet is a quinoline antimalarial drug that works by killing the malaria parasite Plasmodium. It has a number of different modes of action, including:

  • Inhibition of heme polymerase: Resochin tablet inhibits the enzyme heme polymerase, which prevents the parasite from converting toxic heme into hemozoin. This causes the buildup of toxic heme in the parasite, which kills it.
  • Rise in lysosomal pH: Resochin tablet accumulates in the lysosomes of the parasite, where it raises the pH. This prevents the parasite from digesting hemoglobin, which it needs for survival.
  • Interference with autophagy: Resochin tablet interferes with autophagy, a process by which the parasite breaks down its own cellular components to obtain nutrients. This deprives the parasite of essential nutrients and kills it.
  • Interference with protein trafficking: Resochin tablet interferes with protein trafficking in the parasite, which prevents it from producing and transporting essential proteins. This kills the parasite.