Quinine is a medication given mainly for malaria treatment. It can be given alone or along with other medications. Malaria is spread through mosquito bites and seen mostly in tropical climates. Quinine can also be used in the treatment of the babesiosis, which is an illness transmitted by ticks. There are certain effects seen in patients taking quinine.
Treating Malaria Infection
According to UK Net Doctor, quinine works by binding to the DNA of the malaria parasite, which is carried by the mosquito. When the mosquito bites an individual, the parasite is transmitted through the saliva. Quinine prevents the parasite from reproducing and curtails the malaria infection, allowing recovery in the patient.
Treating Leg Cramps
According to PubMed Health, the majority of quinine users in the United States take quinine to treat nighttime leg cramps. Quinine causes a delay in the time for muscle contraction, which reduces leg muscle spasms and provides relief.
Allergic Reactions and Behavior Effects
MayoClinic.com lists allergic reactions as effects seen with people on quinine. This can result in facial swelling, tear filled eyes and increased hives seen on the skin. A change in behavior can also be experienced, which is similar to that seen in a drunken person. This includes slurring of speech, confusion, restlessness and problems with limb coordination.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar levels can be seen as an effect in people taking quinine, as listed by Medline Plus. This can result in several effects, including increased sweating, feeling light headed and faint, nausea, headaches and hunger pangs. Low blood sugar levels if left untreated, can further result in abnormal brain activity such as seizures and ultimately complete loss of consciousness.
Skin Problems
Skin problems can arise as an effect of quinine, according to Drugs Online Library. Some people may experience increased bruising and skin discoloration such as spots on the skin. A painful rash can also occur, resulting in the formation of blisters and increased peeling of the skin.
Hearing and Eyesight
Patients taking quinine can experience negative effects with hearing and eyesight, according to Drugs Online Library. Ringing in the ears is commonly experienced and patients may complain of having difficulty hearing while taking the medication. This is usually restored once the medication is stopped. MayoClinic.com reports that patients may experience double vision and problems perceiving colors.
Increased Heartbeats
Drugs Online Library reports that taking quinine can result in cardiac effects such as increased heartbeats. This affects the pumping of blood and oxygen supplies to the heart and can lead to dizziness, weakness and unusual tiredness. Some patients also experience chest pain along with increased heartbeats, which occurs due to the depletion of oxygen in the heart muscle.
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