Quinine

Common Name: quinine

How does Quinine work?

Quinine is a member of the class of medications known as antimalarials. It is used along with one other medication (usually an antibiotic) to treat certain types of malaria. It is also used to treat and prevent leg muscle cramps that occur while at rest during the night. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Quinine?

For treatment of malaria, the average recommended daily adult dose of quinine is 600 mg three times daily, taken after meals, for three to seven days. Children's doses are calculated according to body weight. For treatment of nighttime leg cramps, the recommended dose of quinine is 200 mg to 300 mg at bedtime. If this dose does not completely prevent the leg cramps, your doctor may prescribe another dose to be taken immediately after the evening meal. If the leg cramps go away for several nights, quinine should be stopped to determine if it is still needed. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose or dosing schedule different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor. It is important to take this medication regularly and to follow your doctor's instructions exactly. If a dose of quinine is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Never double doses.

What form(s) does Quinine come in?

Quinine-Odan is available in strengths of 200 mg and 300 mg. 200 mg: Each clear capsule, imprinted "ODAN 200", contains quinine sulfate 200 mg. 300 mg: Each clear capsule, imprinted "ODAN 300", contains quinine sulfate 300 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, gelatin, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium lauryl sulfate, starch, stearic acid, and talc. This medication does not contain gluten, lactose, paraben, sodium, sulfite, or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Quinine?

Quinine should not be taken by anyone with the following conditions: low blood sugar glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency history of blackwater fever and purpura (purplish discoloration of skin) myasthenia gravis optic neuritis ringing in the ears (tinnitus) pregnancy (unless quinine is required to treat a severe, life-threatening malaria infection in the mother) allergy to quinine or any of the ingredients of the medication

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Quinine?

Diabetes: Quinine may lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes who take this medication should use appropriate caution. Heart disease: Quinine may cause side effects that affect the heart, but usually only at high doses. Pregnancy: Quinine may cause birth defects. It should be used during pregnancy only when required to treat a severe, life-threatening malaria. Breast-feeding: Quinine passes into breast milk. No harmful effects have been reported in healthy infants exposed to quinine through breast milk. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication while nursing.