Quinine Sulfate is one of the oldest known antimalarial drugs, with its use dating back hundreds of years. More recently it has additionally been used to treat nighttime leg cramps, though its use for this purpose is controversial in some parts of the world.

There is no certain cure for malaria, which is caused by a parasite transmitted to humans by mosquito bites. Even with treatment malaria may result in severe illness and death. Every effort should be made to take preventative measures against mosquito bites when traveling in an area with malaria, including use of protective clothing, mosquito netting, and mosquito repellents.

Though malaria is most commonly associated with sub-Saharan Africa, it is also found in parts of South America and Asia.

Malaria Treatment with Quinine Sulfate:

To treat malaria, Quinine Sulfate tablets are usually taken every 8 hours for up to 7 days. Dosage may vary depending on patient weight, age and other conditions, but on average 600 mg is considered one dose.

Patients taking any form of quinine should avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium for 3 hours before or after quinine use, as this will considerably reduce the medication's effectiveness.

This medication should be taken with food to prevent nausea or vomiting. If vomiting does occur within 30 minutes of taking quinine, the dose should be retaken. Between 30 to 60 minutes, a half dose should be taken.

Quinine Sulfate is rarely used as a preventative measure against contracting malaria. Products such as Malarone or Lariam are frequently taken prior to and during trips into malaria zones, providing further protection. Preventative treatments are not 100% effective, however, and there is still a chance of becoming ill with malaria. Mixing antimalarials can be very dangerous -- be sure physicians treating malaria are aware of any other antimalarials recently taken.

Pregnant women are particularly prone to serious illness from malaria. Quinine Sulfate is widely considered the safest antimalarial treatment available for treating malaria in pregnant women.

Quinine Sulfate and Nighttime Leg Cramps:

As mentioned above, Quinine Sulfate use to treat nighttime leg cramps is controversial in some areas. In the USA, for example, the FDA has banned manufacture and sale of the product for this use, claiming risk of severe side effects outweigh any benefits.

In other parts of the world, however, it is commonly used to treat leg cramping and for many patients is the most effective and affordable solution available.

To treat nighttime leg cramps, 200 to 300 mg of Quinine Sulfate is taken immediately before bed. It may be taken as tablets or mixed with fluids, but it is extremely bitter and many patients find it difficult to drink. Either way it begins working quickly, enabling patients to sleep comfortably.

Clients are responsible for understanding and complying with local laws concerning Quinine Sulfate use.

Contraindications:

Patients with conditions causing heart arrythmia should not use Quinine Sulfate.

Sometimes allergic reactions will develop in individuals using quinine over time, even if no reaction occurred at the start of use. Symptoms of allergic reaction include:

• Hives, rash or itching
• Swelling of lips, eyes and tongue
• Swelling of throat, difficulty breathing

In case of allergic reaction, stop taking Quinine Sulfate and speak with a physician about alternative treatments.

Side Effects:

There are a number of side effects associated with quinine use, ranging from mild to potentially life-threatening. The more dangerous side effects include pulmonary edema, renal failure, and disrupted heart rhythm.

Quinine Sulfate is also known to interact with certain other prescription and non-prescription medications.

Before using Quinine Sulfate, discuss possible risks with a doctor and read the insert included with the product for the most up-to-date information.

Quinine Sulfate overdose can be very dangerous and warrants immediate medical attention.