QUININE

QUININE: Quinine is a medication that has been used for centuries to treat malaria. It is derived from the bark of the cinchona tree and is known for its antimalarial properties.

The primary use of quinine is in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. It is primarily used in regions where malaria is prevalent and is often combined with other antimalarial drugs to improve its efficacy.

The mechanism of action of quinine involves its ability to interfere with the malaria parasite’s ability to utilize and metabolize hemoglobin. It acts by inhibiting the parasite’s heme polymerase, leading to the buildup of toxic heme molecules that are detrimental to the parasite’s survival.

The recommended dose of quinine for the treatment of malaria is usually around 600 mg to 800 mg taken orally three times a day for a period of 7 to 10 days. In severe cases of malaria, intravenous administration may be necessary.

While quinine is effective in treating malaria, it may also cause certain side effects. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headache, dizziness, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). In rare cases, more serious side effects such as visual disturbances, serious allergic reactions, and cardiac arrhythmias can occur. It should be noted that in recent years, quinine has been largely replaced by other antimalarial drugs due to the availability of more effective and better-tolerated options.