Antimalarials are a class of medications that are used to treat and prevent malaria, a potentially life-threatening mosquito-borne disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite. In addition to their antimalarial properties, these medications have been found to have beneficial effects in dermatology, particularly in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases such as lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and cutaneous sarcoidosis. Commonly used antimalarials in dermatology include hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, and quinacrine. These medications can have a range of side effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms, skin rash, and ocular toxicity, so regular monitoring is necessary.

This learning module provides a comprehensive review of the different antimalarial agents used in dermatology, their mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, adverse effects, and drug interactions.

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