Generic name: quinine (oral route) [ KWYE-nine ]
Drug class:Antimalarial quinolines
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 30, 2022.
Quinine sulfate use for the treatment or prevention of nocturnal leg cramps may result in serious and life-threatening hematologic reactions, including thrombocytopenia and hemolytic uremic syndrome/thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (HUS/TTP). Chronic renal impairment associated with the development of TTP has been reported. The risk associated with quinine sulfate use in the absence of evidence of its effectiveness in the treatment or prevention of nocturnal leg cramps outweighs any potential benefit .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Qualaquin
- Quinamm
- Quiphile
Available Dosage Forms:
- Capsule
Therapeutic Class: Musculoskeletal Agent
Chemical Class: Cinchona Alkaloid
Uses for Quiphile
Quinine is used to treat malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Plasmodium falciparum is a parasite that gets into the red blood cells in the body and causes malaria. Quinine works by killing the parasite or preventing it from growing. This medicine may be used alone or given together with one or more medicines for malaria.
Quinine should not be used to treat or prevent night time leg cramps. This medicine may cause very serious unwanted effects and should only be used for patients with malaria.
This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using Quiphile
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingred..
