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Re: Quinine Sulfate

Posted by susie on October 14, 1998 at 23:24:49:
In Reply to: Re: Quinine Sulfate posted by J C on October 14, 1998 at 12:43:41:
Quinine sulfate is most usually associated with its use as treatment and suppression of recurrent episodes of malaria. In the US malaria is something we rarely think of, but for people who served in the military or the Peace Corps who got it, they still suffer from it. Malaria never goes away but has to be treated for the rest of the persons life. The quinine kills a certain stage in the reproduction of the malaria parasite
One of the effects of quinine is that reduces the response of the muscles to nerve signals that make them contract.
Other than for malaria, the only other medical use I know for quinine is for leg cramps. It is sold over the counter alongside the Advil and Tylenol labeled as medication for nighttime leg cramps. I forget the names of the actual brands, there are at least 2-3, but thay all contain quinine sulfate in the same dosage form.
I had never heard of quinine sulfate being used to treat Restless Leg Syndrome, but I can see that it might be of some help.
The problem is with side effects if the blood level gets too high. The problem with side effects that are severe - like deafness, or severe vision problems is that you always have to wonder if some permanent damage may be occurring, which I cannot tell you.
There may be other medical reasons a doctor would prescribe quinine sulfate, but I have not been able to find this out. A pharmacist might be able to give you more information.
If your friend is being prescribed the drug he should ask his doctor why. No one should ever take a medication without knowing what it is and why he is taking it.
If he finds out it is for something other than these things I nentioned, let me know, so we both can learn.
susie

Follow Ups:

Re: Quinine Sulfate - not OTC? susie 11/04/98 (0)

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