Quinine
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Antimalarial
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Quinine
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Quinine is primarily used to treat severe or drug-resistant cases of malaria, particularly caused by Plasmodium falciparum. It is also used for babesiosis, a disease similar to malaria. Some people take it for muscle cramps, but this use is discouraged due to potential serious side effects.
Quinine works by interfering with the malaria parasite's ability to break down hemoglobin in red blood cells, leading to the parasite's death. It also affects nerve and muscle function, which explains its use in treating leg cramps.
For malaria, adults typically take 600 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. For children, the dosage is 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for the same period. For leg cramps, a lower dose of 200-300 mg at bedtime is sometimes prescribed. Quinine is taken orally, usually with food to reduce stomach upset.
Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and headache. Serious risks include quinine toxicity (cinchonism), which can cause vision changes, confusion, hearing loss, and heart problems. In rare cases, it can cause life-threatening low blood sugar and blood disorders.
People with heart disease, low blood sugar, liver or kidney disease, or a history of quinine allergy should avoid it. It should not be used in pregnant women unless necessary, as it can cause complications. Avoid driving if you experience dizziness or vision problems. Alcohol and grapefruit juice should be avoided while on quinine.
Indications and Purpose
What is Quinine?
Quinine is an antimalarial drug used to treat Plasmodium falciparum malaria, particularly in severe or drug-resistant cases. It works by interfering with the parasite’s ability to break down hemoglobin, which leads to its death. Quinine is also sometimes used to treat nocturnal leg cramps, but its use for this purpose is limited due to safety concerns.
What is Quinine used for?
Quinine is primarily used to treat malaria, especially when other treatments fail. It is also used for babesiosis, a tick-borne disease similar to malaria. Some people take quinine for muscle cramps, but this use is discouraged due to potential serious side effects.
How does Quinine work?
Quinine kills Plasmodium parasites by interfering with their ability to break down hemoglobin in red blood cells. This disrupts their metabolism, leading to their death. It also affects nerve and muscle function, which explains its role in treating leg cramps.
Is Quinine effective?
Yes, quinine has been used for centuries and remains effective against malaria, but resistance is increasing in some areas. It is still useful when combined with other antimalarials. However, its effectiveness for leg cramps is debated due to the risk of severe side effects.
How does one know if Quinine is working?
For malaria, symptoms like fever, chills, and sweating should improve within a few days. A blood test after treatment confirms that the parasite is gone. For leg cramps, reduced muscle spasms indicate effectiveness.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Quinine?
For malaria, adults typically take 600 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. Children are given 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for the same period. The dose may be adjusted based on kidney or liver function. For leg cramps, a lower dose (200–300 mg at bedtime) is sometimes prescribed, but it is not a first-line treatment.
How do I take Quinine?
Quinine is taken orally, usually with food to reduce stomach upset. It should be swallowed whole with water. Avoid taking grapefruit juice, as it may increase quinine levels in the blood, leading to more side effects. Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as quinine toxicity can be dangerous.
For how long do I take Quinine?
For malaria, quinine is taken for 7 days, though in severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a longer duration. If used for leg cramps, treatment should be short-term, as long-term use increases the risk of side effects. Always follow your doctor’s advice on treatment length.
How long does it take for Quinine to start working?
Quinine starts working within hours, but malaria symptoms usually improve within 48 to 72 hours. However, completing the full course is essential to prevent relapse. For leg cramps, it may take a few days to show effects.
How should I store Quinine?
Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and heat. Keep it in a sealed container and out of reach of children.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Quinine?
People with heart disease, low blood sugar, liver or kidney disease, or a history of quinine allergy should avoid it. It should not be used in pregnant women unless necessary, as it can cause complications.
Can I take Quinine with other prescription drugs?
Quinine interacts with warfarin, digoxin, antacids, and certain antibiotics. It can also increase the risk of irregular heart rhythms when taken with some antidepressants and antipsychotics. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Can I take Quinine with vitamins or supplements?
Avoid taking quinine with magnesium or calcium supplements, as they may reduce its absorption. Also, avoid iron supplements, as they can interfere with its effectiveness.
Can Quinine be taken safely while pregnant?
Quinine is used for severe malaria in pregnancy, but it carries risks like low blood sugar and birth defects. It should only be taken if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Can Quinine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Yes, quinine passes into breast milk but is usually safe in low doses. However, if the baby shows signs of irritability, vomiting, or unusual sleepiness, consult a doctor.
Is Quinine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients are more sensitive to quinine’s side effects, especially heart problems, dizziness, and low blood sugar. Regular monitoring is essential.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Quinine?
Light exercise is fine, but avoid intense physical activity if you experience dizziness, weakness, or heart palpitations.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Quinine?
No, alcohol can increase dizziness and worsen side effects like nausea and tinnitus. It also increases the risk of low blood sugar. It’s best to avoid alcohol while on quinine.
Forms / Brands
