Quinine tablets or capsules
Quinine tablets or capsules
What is this medicine?
QUININE (KWYE nine) is an antimalarial agent. It is used to treat malaria. Quinine should not be used to prevent leg cramps.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. Take with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
change in vision
difficulty breathing
fainting
fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain
hearing loss or ringing
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
seizure
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual red or purple spots on the skin
unusually weak
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
flushing
diarrhea
headache
stomach upset, vomiting
sweating
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
cisapride
cholinesterase inhibitors like edrophonium, neostigmine, physostigmine, and pyridostigmine
erythromycin, troleandomycin
flecainide
other antimalarial drugs like mefloquine, halofantrine
pimozide
quinidine
rifampin
some medicines for irregular heart rhythm
some medicines used during surgery
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
acetazolamide
antacids
atorvastatin
cimetidine
desipramine
digoxin
heparin
ketoconazole
lovastatin
simvastatin
sodium bicarbonate
some antibiotics
some medicines to treat seizures
tonic water that contains quinine
warfarin
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 25 and 30 degrees C (77 and 86 degrees F). Keep in a tightly closed container. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
diabetes
glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
heart problems, irregular heartbeats
kidney disease
liver disease
muscle weakness or disease
vision or hearing problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to quinine, quinidine, mefloquine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Let your doctor know if your symptoms do not improve or if you feel worse. Contact your doctor right away if your fevers come back after you finish this medicine.
Some people may have low blood sugar while taking this medicine. Low blood sugar can make you feel lightheaded, dizzy, sweaty, confused, shaky, anxious, or weak. If you feel this way drink some fruit juice or have a snack then call your doctor. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar as directed.
Avoid antacids with aluminum or magnesium for 2 hours before and after taking a dose of this medicine.
Tell your health care provider that you are taking this medicine before you have any surgery, procedure, or dental work.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018