Uses of Quinine

Quinine is used to treat malaria. It can also be used to treat and prevent night cramps when sleep is regularly disrupted.

Therapeutic Category

Quinine: Antimalarials

How Quinine works

Quinine works by increasing the levels of heme in the blood, a substance toxic to the malarial parasite. This kills the parasite and stops the infection from spreading.

Common side effects of Quinine

• Headache
• Sweating
• Ringing in ears
• Dizziness
• Change in colour vision
• Nausea
• Flushing
• Mild hearing loss
• Blurred vision

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor, if you experience:

• Allergic reactions symptoms such as itchy skin rash, swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue, flushing, fever, asthma, or sensitivity to light
• Sores in the mouth, nose, and eyes, skin rash, blistering (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Cinchonism symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, disturbed vision (blurred vision, changes in colour perception or field of vision, total blindness)
• Headache, feeling or being sick, ringing in the ears or impaired hearing, rashes, loss of consciousness, fits, shock due to heart problems, irregular heartbeats
• Bruising or bleeding easily, frequent nose bleeds, or more sore throats and infections than usual

Health Tips for Quinine

• Quinine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and avoiding smoking
• Regular check-ups allow your healthcare provider to monitor your health and adjust your treatment plan if necessary
• Stay well-hydrated while taking quinine, especially if you experience vomiting or diarrhea as side effects
• Do not drive or operate any machines if you feel that your vision is affected or causes vertigo (dizziness or spinning sensation) after taking Quinine
• Quinine is not recommended for use in pregnant or planning for pregnancy or breastfeeding women