Three patients had rapid rises in
serum ciclosporin levels, with evidence of nephrotoxicity in two of them, when they were given
chloroquine. Some loss of
renal function has been seen even when low doses of
ciclosporin are used with
chloroquine for rheumatoid
arthritis. Note that
hydroxychloroquine may interact similarly.
Ciclosporin levels and/or effects (e.g. on
renal function) should be monitored as a matter of routine, but it may be prudent to increase monitoring if
chloroquine is started or stopped. Adjust the dose of
ciclosporin as necessary.