Description:

Quinine is a medication primarily used to treat malaria, a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. It works by killing the parasites responsible for malaria.

Prescription:

• Prescription

Dosage:

The dosage of quinine varies based on factors such as age, weight, and the severity of the infection. 

• For adults, a common oral dosage is 500 mg of quinine base (equivalent to 600 mg of quinine sulfate dihydrate) every 8 hours for 7 to 10 days.
•  For children, the dosage is typically 8.2 mg of quinine base per kilogram of body weight every 8 hours for 7 to 10 days.
•  The exact duration of treatment depends on the local susceptibility of the malaria parasite to quinine and whether it is combined with other medications.

Therapeutic Category:

• Antimalarial: Used to treat malaria infections.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Quinine: The active ingredient in quinine syrup.

Variant:

• Syrup: Quinine is available in syrup form, commonly with a concentration of 100 mg per 5 mL.

Consume Type:

• Oral: The syrup is intended for oral administration.

Directions/Usage:

1. Administration:
   • Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure proper mixing.
   • Use a medical-grade measuring device to ensure accurate dosing.
2. Timing:
   • Administer the dose every 8 hours, as prescribed.
   • Maintain consistent intervals between doses to ensure effective blood levels of the medication.
3. Food Interaction:
   • Quinine can be taken with or without food.
   • If stomach upset occurs, taking it with food may help alleviate discomfort.
4. Missed Dose:
   • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered.
   • If it has been more than 4 hours since the missed dose, skip it and continue with the regular dosing schedule.
   • Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. 

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
• Neurological:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Other:
  • Sweating
  • Flushing

If any side effects are severe or persistent, contact a healthcare provider promptly.

Package Type:

• Bottle: Quinine syrup is typically supplied in amber-colored bottles to protect the medication from light.

Storage Advice:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Light Exposure: Keep the bottle tightly closed and protect it from light exposure.
• Child Safety: Ensure the medication is stored out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Safety Advice:

• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies to quinine or related compounds.
• Medical History: Discuss your medical history, especially if you have conditions like heart disease, liver or kidney disorders, or blood-related issues.
• Drug Interactions: Provide a complete list of current medications to your healthcare provider to assess potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your healthcare provider before using quinine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Sun Sensitivity: Quinine may increase sensitivity to sunlight; use protective measures when outdoors.

Product Substitutes:

• Alternative antimalarial medications may be considered based on the specific malaria strain and regional resistance patterns. Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

• Pharmakina

Country of Origin:

• D.R Congo