Antimalarial
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Quinine Dihydrochloride is an antimalarial drug given by injection to treat severe malaria. It works by killing the malaria parasites in your blood, especially when the malaria is too serious for tablets to handle.
Inhibits Plasmodium parasite nucleic acid synthesis and protein production by intercalating into parasite DNA and disrupting ribosomal function, thereby arresting parasite development and reducing parasitemia in severe malaria.
Severe malaria, complicated malaria (when the person is vomiting, unconscious, or very weak and cannot swallow tablets)
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Since this drug is given in a hospital by medical staff, missed doses are unlikely. If there is any delay, the medical team will adjust the timing. Do not try to double up the dose.
This injection must only be given in a hospital or clinic by trained health workers; never buy it and inject yourself or let an untrained person give it to you. Make sure the drip runs slowly as directed; giving quinine too fast through the vein can cause fatal heart problems. Always insist on a malaria test before treatment, not every fever is malaria.
Mefloquine (another antimalarial): taking both together can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems. Digoxin (heart medicine): quinine can increase digoxin levels in your blood and cause toxicity. Avoid alcohol while on quinine as it can worsen low blood sugar and side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Quinine with your other drugs?
Quinine Dihydrochloride can be used in pregnancy for severe malaria because untreated severe malaria is far more dangerous to both mother and baby, but it must be given under strict medical supervision in a hospital with regular blood sugar monitoring.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. In hot Nigerian weather, store below 30°C if possible. Discard any opened or unused ampoules; do not save them for later.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.