Quinine belongs to a group of medications called the antimalarials. It is used to treat an established malarial infection. Malaria is caused by an organism which classed as a protozoa and is a parasite which is carried by mosquitoes. During a bite from a mosquito, the parasite passes into the body. Once inside, it lives and reproduces. This results in the infection known as malaria. In the blood, malaria parasites break down a part of the red blood cells known as haemoglobin. When this happens haemoglobin is divided into two parts; haem and globin. Haem is toxic to the malaria parasite. To prevent it from being damaged, the malaria parasite produces an chemical which converts the toxic haem into a non-toxic compound. Quinine binds to the genetic material (DNA) of the parasite. DNA is responsible for copying the genetic material which is vital for the replication of the parasite. When quinine binds to DNA this copying process is prevented. This inhibits the reproduction of the parasite and therefore controls the infection allowing the person to recover. Quinine is usually used in the treatment of a type of malaria known as falciparum malaria. It is also used to treat malaria where the type of infecting organism is unknown. It is not suitable for the prevention of malaria. It is also used to treat muscle cramps that occur at night. It has this effect by delaying the time it takes for the muscle to contract, thereby relieving the muscle spasms. The oral sulphate form of quinine is used for both the treatment of malaria and night cramps whilst the intravenous dihydrochloride form is only used for the treatment of malaria.

What is it used for?

Cramp in the legs at night

Treatment of malaria infection

Warning!

In cases of overdose, seek immediate advice from a doctor.

Blood glucose should be monitored during intravenous treatment.

Use with caution in

Defect of the heart's electrical message pathways resulting in decreased function of the heart (heart block)

Defects of the heart's electrical message pathways, causing irregular heartbeats (heart conduction defects)

Irregular heart beats in a chamber of the heart (atrial fibrillation)

Lack of the chemical G6PD in the blood (G6PD deficiency)

Not to be used in

Blood present in urine (haematuria)

Inflammation of the nerve carrying signals from the eye to the brain causing blurred vision (Optic neuritis)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.