Quinine Injection

Quinine Injection is an alkaloid antimalarial agent used primarily in intensive care settings for the treatment of life-threatening malaria infections. It works by interfering with the parasite's ability to digest hemoglobin. It must be administered under strict medical supervision due to potential cardiovascular toxicity and risk of severe hypoglycemia.

Dosage by Body Weight

Administered via slow intravenous infusion over 4 hours. A loading dose of 20 mg/kg may be given, followed by maintenance doses of 10 mg/kg every 8 hours. Switch to oral therapy as soon as the patient can tolerate it.

  1. Body Weight
    Below 5 kg
    Dose
    10 mg/kg (maintenance dose)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Dilute in 5-10 ml/kg of 5% dextrose. Infuse over 4 hours. Monitor blood glucose closely.
  2. Body Weight
    5-7 kg
    Dose
    50 mg to 70 mg (maintenance dose)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Dilute in 5% dextrose or 0.9% saline. Infuse over 4 hours. Monitor ECG and blood glucose.
  3. Body Weight
    8-10 kg
    Dose
    80 mg to 100 mg (maintenance dose)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Dilute in 5% dextrose or 0.9% saline. Infuse over 4 hours. Monitor ECG and blood glucose.
  4. Body Weight
    11-15 kg
    Dose
    110 mg to 150 mg (maintenance dose)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Dilute in 5% dextrose or 0.9% saline. Infuse over 4 hours. Monitor ECG and blood glucose.
  5. Body Weight
    16-20 kg
    Dose
    160 mg to 200 mg (maintenance dose)
    Frequency
    Every 8 hours
    Tracking Notes
    Dilute in 5% dextrose or 0.9% saline. Infuse over 4 hours. Monitor ECG and blood glucose.

Formulation

Injection

Purpose

Treatment of severe or complicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum when oral therapy is not possible or tolerated.

Generic Name

Quinine Dihydrochloride

Branded Drug Names

Quinine Injection is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. WHO references and weight bands are simplified for tracking and must not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.