Chloroquine, an antimalarial drug once thought to be a viable treatment for Ebola, was ineffective in a new study using mice and hamster models.
Chloroquine has been proven safe for humans and is also inexpensive. For more than 30 years, chloroquine has been effective due to its antiviral properties in HIV-1, coronaviruses, dengue, chikungunya and influenza treatments, among others.
Chloroquine may be taken for as long as it’s needed. It’s side effects include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It may also be prescribed to children and adults of all ages.
Unfortunately, a recent study published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) journal, Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) using mice and hamster models shows chloroquine to be ineffective for Ebola treatment.
With no vaccine or treatment available the CDC recommends the following:
- Providing intravenous fluids (IV) and balancing electrolytes (body salts).
- Maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure.
- Treating other infections if they occur.
To learn more, the study can be found at the EID journal.
