Quinamm

Generic name: quinine

Drug class: Antimalarial quinolines

Dosage form: Oral capsule (260 mg)

Root of administration: Oral

Dose: 260 mg per capsule; dosage regimen varies based on the specific indication and patient factors

Mechanism of action: Quinine interferes with the growth and reproduction of the malaria parasite by inhibiting heme polymerase, leading to the accumulation of toxic heme within the parasite, which ultimately results in its death.

Drug usage cases:

• Treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum

Drug contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to quinine or any component of the formulation
• History of tinnitus, optic neuritis, or other retinal damage
• Myasthenia gravis
• Prolonged QT interval or other significant cardiac arrhythmias
• Concurrent use with medications that prolong the QT interval or are known to cause torsades de pointes

Side effects:

• Cardiovascular: QT interval prolongation, arrhythmias, hypotension
• Hematologic: Thrombocytopenia, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Neurological: Tinnitus, hearing loss, visual disturbances, headache, dizziness
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
• Dermatologic: Rash, pruritus
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Anaphylaxis, angioedema

Warnings:

• Quinine is not approved for the treatment or prevention of nighttime leg cramps due to the risk of serious side effects
• Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias or electrolyte disturbances
• Monitor for signs of hemolysis, especially in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
• Discontinue therapy if signs of severe adverse reactions occur
• Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Quinine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administering to a nursing woman.