Quinine

Available by prescription only, quinine is approved for treating uncomplicated (or mild) malaria. It works by killing the parasite that causes this blood infection. The drug comes in capsule form and is taken every eight hours for seven days. The amount of your dosage will depend on whether you have kidney disease. Possible side effects include sweating, dizziness, and headaches.

What Is Quinine?

Quinine sulfate (Qualaquin®) is a prescription medication licensed to treat uncomplicated (or mild) malaria.
 
(Click What Is Quinine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, quinine can cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.
 
Common side effects of quinine include but are not limited to:
 
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Sweating
  • Flushing, or a sudden redness and warmth of the skin
  • Nausea and vomiting.
     
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
(Click Side Effects of Quinine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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