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Why Was Quinine Removed From Shelves

Quinine was removed from shelves by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration due to serious side effects and death. Quinine (Qualaquin) is currently FDA approved for use in treating malaria.

  1. History

    • During the early 17th century, Spanish missionaries learned in South America of a tree bark known to cure fever. The tree, quinquina calisaya, commonly found in Bolivia, was frequently used by native Indian tribes to treat fever and muscle cramps.

    Severe Side Effect

    • Development of anaphylaxis can occur when taking quinine. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening, severe allergic reaction. Symptoms include swelling of the face and neck, difficulty breathing and increased heart rate.

    Other Side Effects

    • Quinine can cause heart palpitations, chest pain, weakness, blurred vision, fever, sore throat, skin rashes, nausea, diarrhea and increased sweating. Milder side effects can include ringing in the ears, dizziness and stomach pain.

    By Prescription

    • Prescribed in conjunction with other medications, quinine can be given for three to seven days depending on the severity of infection. Daily dosage generally ranges from 542 mg to 684 mg in compliance with Centers for Disease Control treatment outlines.

    Administration

    • Prescribed quinine should be administered as directed on the prescription label. Taken with food, quinine is less apt to upset the stomach.

    Potential

    • Quinine has been recently successful in treating black water fever, monkey malaria and babesia microti infection. The Centers for Disease Control continues to test the effects of quinine on parasitic organisms in an effort treat contracted diseases.

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