What is the Difference Between Chloroquine Phosphate and Chloroquine Sulphate?

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Chloroquine phosphate and chloroquine sulphate are both formulations of the antimalarial drug chloroquine, which is used to prevent and treat malaria. The key difference between the two lies in their chemical structure and abundance in the market.

  • Chloroquine Phosphate: This is the most common tablet form of chloroquine. In its chemical structure, two phosphate anions are associated with the chloroquine molecule.
  • Chloroquine Sulphate: This is a less common tablet form of chloroquine. In its chemical structure, one sulfate anion is associated with the chloroquine molecule.

Both chloroquine phosphate and chloroquine sulphate are effective in treating malaria, but chloroquine phosphate is more abundant in the market. The choice between the two formulations may depend on factors such as availability, cost, and specific patient needs. It is essential for healthcare professionals to understand the differences between these formulations to ensure accurate prescribing and patient education.

Comparative Table: Chloroquine Phosphate vs Chloroquine Sulphate

Chloroquine phosphate and chloroquine sulfate are both antimalarial drugs, but they have different chemical structures and properties. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

Property Chloroquine Phosphate Chloroquine Sulfate
Chemical Formula C18H26ClN3 • 3H3PO4 C18H26ClN3 • H2SO4
Molecular Weight Not available 298.146 g/mol
Solubility Soluble in water Soluble in water
Method of Action Retards the heme polymerization process in the plasmodium Not available
pKa 5.4 for Cl-1 and 7.3 for CQ4+ Not available
Biological Half-Life Approximately 30 days following a single oral dose of 200 mg base (155 mg sulfate) Not available

Chloroquine phosphate is the oral form of the drug, while chloroquine hydrochloride is the form used intramuscularly for malaria-induced coma. A 250 mg dose of chloroquine phosphate contains 150 mg of chloroquine base, and a 200 mg dose of hydroxychloroquine sulfate contains 155 mg of hydroxychloroquine base. The relative potency and toxicity of chloroquine phosphate and chloroquine sulfate are inconsistently portrayed, with some sources stating that chloroquine is more potent and more toxic than hydroxychloroquine, while others suggest the reverse.