About quinine dihydrochloride
Antimalarial; cinchona alkaloid
Used for
- Treatment of severe malaria when preferred medicines are unavailable or unsuitable.
Usual adult dose
For severe malaria: 20 mg/kg quinine salt by slow intravenous infusion over 4 hours, then 10 mg/kg every 8 hours; dosing depends on prior quinine use and local guidance.
Usual dose in children
For severe malaria: 20 mg/kg quinine salt by slow intravenous infusion over 4 hours, then 10 mg/kg every 8 hours; specialist supervision required.
Common side effects
- Ringing in the ears, headache, nausea, or blurred vision
- Low blood sugar
- Low blood pressure or abnormal heart rhythm
- Allergic reactions or low blood-cell counts
Important warnings
- Severe malaria is a medical emergency; treatment requires close monitoring.
- Never inject rapidly into a vein; serious heart rhythm problems or death can result.
- Can cause dangerously low blood sugar, especially during pregnancy.
- Quinine salt and quinine base doses differ; verify the product and dosing protocol.
Pregnancy
Can be used for severe malaria when clinically necessary; malaria itself poses major risks. Monitor blood sugar closely.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; generally compatible, but seek clinical guidance, especially for premature or glucose-deficient infants.
Interactions
- Mefloquine, halofantrine, or other medicines that prolong the heart rhythm may increase arrhythmia risk.
- Warfarin and other blood thinners may have increased effects.
- Digoxin levels may rise.
- Antacids containing aluminium may reduce absorption of oral quinine.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.