About quinine sulfate
Antimalarial medicine
Used for
- Treats uncomplicated malaria caused by susceptible parasites, usually with another medicine.
- May be used for babesiosis in combination with other medicines.
Usual adult dose
Malaria: 648 mg by mouth every 8 hours for 7 days, with an appropriate companion medicine.
Usual dose in children
Malaria: 10 mg/kg by mouth every 8 hours for 7 days; maximum 648 mg per dose, with a companion medicine.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort
- Headache, dizziness, or ringing in the ears
- Low blood sugar
- Abnormal heart rhythm
Important warnings
- Can cause serious allergic reactions, low platelets, or blood disorders.
- May prolong the QT interval and trigger dangerous heart rhythms.
- Not used to prevent malaria or treat nighttime leg cramps.
- Dose and treatment depend on the infection and local resistance.
Pregnancy
Malaria can be dangerous during pregnancy. Quinine may be used when needed, with medical supervision; treatment depends on infection and pregnancy stage.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk. Use requires clinical consideration, especially if the infant has glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.
Interactions
- QT-prolonging medicines may increase risk of dangerous heart rhythms.
- Warfarin and other medicines affected by CYP enzymes may have altered effects.
- Rifampin can reduce quinine levels; cimetidine may increase them.
- Antacids containing aluminum may reduce absorption.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.