sulfaquin (QUININE)
What is Sulfaquin?
Sulfaquin is an antimalarial drug used to treat Plasmodium falciparum malaria, particularly in severe or drug-resistant cases. It works by interfering with the parasite’s ability to break down hemoglobin, which leads to its death. Sulfaquin is also sometimes used to treat nocturnal leg cramps, but its use for this purpose is limited due to safety concerns.
What is the usual dose of Sulfaquin?
For malaria, adults typically take 600 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. Children are given 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for the same period. The dose may be adjusted based on kidney or liver function. For leg cramps, a lower dose (200–300 mg at bedtime) is sometimes prescribed, but it is not a first-line treatment.
How do I take Sulfaquin?
Sulfaquin is taken orally, usually with food to reduce stomach upset. It should be swallowed whole with water. Avoid taking grapefruit juice, as it may increase Sulfaquin levels in the blood, leading to more side effects. Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as Sulfaquin toxicity can be dangerous.
For how long do I take Sulfaquin?
For malaria, Sulfaquin is taken for 7 days, though in severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a longer duration. If used for leg cramps, treatment should be short-term, as long-term use increases the risk of side effects. Always follow your doctor’s advice on treatment length.
What is Sulfaquin used for?
Sulfaquin is primarily used to treat malaria, especially when other treatments fail. It is also used for babesiosis, a tick-borne disease similar to malaria. Some people take Sulfaquin for muscle cramps, but this use is discouraged due to potential serious side effects.
How long does it take for Sulfaquin to start working?
Sulfaquin starts working within hours, but malaria symptoms usually improve within 48 to 72 hours. However, completing the full course is essential to prevent relapse. For leg cramps, it may take a few days to show effects.
Is Sulfaquin effective?
Yes, Sulfaquin has been used for centuries and remains effective against malaria, but resistance is increasing in some areas. It is still useful when combined with other antimalarials. However, its effectiveness for leg cramps is debated due to the risk of severe side effects.
How does one know if Sulfaquin is working?
For malaria, symptoms like fever, chills, and sweating should improve within a few days. A blood test after treatment confirms that the parasite is gone. For leg cramps, reduced muscle spasms indicate effectiveness.
How does Sulfaquin work?
Sulfaquin kills Plasmodium parasites by interfering with their ability to break down hemoglobin in red blood cells. This disrupts their metabolism, leading to their death. It also affects nerve and muscle function, which explains its role in treating leg cramps.
Who should avoid taking Sulfaquin?
People with heart disease, low blood sugar, liver or kidney disease, or a history of Sulfaquin allergy should avoid it. It should not be used in pregnant women unless necessary, as it can cause complications.
Can I take Sulfaquin with vitamins or supplements?
Avoid taking Sulfaquin with magnesium or calcium supplements, as they may reduce its absorption. Also, avoid iron supplements, as they can interfere with its effectiveness.
Can I take Sulfaquin with other prescription drugs?
Sulfaquin interacts with warfarin, digoxin, antacids, and certain antibiotics. It can also increase the risk of irregular heart rhythms when taken with some antidepressants and antipsychotics. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Can Sulfaquin be taken safely while pregnant?
Sulfaquin is used for severe malaria in pregnancy, but it carries risks like low blood sugar and birth defects. It should only be taken if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Can Sulfaquin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Yes, Sulfaquin passes into breast milk but is usually safe in low doses. However, if the baby shows signs of irritability, vomiting, or unusual sleepiness, consult a doctor.
Is Sulfaquin safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients are more sensitive to Sulfaquin’s side effects, especially heart problems, dizziness, and low blood sugar. Regular monitoring is essential.
How should I store Sulfaquin?
Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and heat. Keep it in a sealed container and out of reach of children.
Does Sulfaquin make people tired or drowsy?
Sulfaquin may cause dizziness and fatigue in some people. If you feel excessively drowsy, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Does Sulfaquin cause stomach upset?
Yes, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common. Taking it with food may help. If symptoms are severe, consult a doctor.
Does Sulfaquin affect sleep?
Some people experience insomnia or vivid dreams while taking Sulfaquin. If sleep disturbances become severe, discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.
Does Sulfaquin make it hard to think or concentrate?
Rarely, Sulfaquin can cause confusion or dizziness, especially at high doses. If this happens, avoid activities requiring focus and talk to your doctor.
Does Sulfaquin affect mood?
Mood changes like anxiety or depression are uncommon but can occur. If you notice significant changes in mood, seek medical advice.
Does Sulfaquin interfere with sexual function?
No direct effects on sexual function are reported, but side effects like fatigue and dizziness may indirectly reduce libido.
Does Sulfaquin affect appetite?
Yes, Sulfaquin may cause loss of appetite. Eating small, frequent meals can help. If severe weight loss occurs, inform your doctor.
Does Sulfaquin cause weight gain?
Most people tolerate this medicine well and weight loss or weight gain is not commonly reported. However, everybody can respond differently to medicines. Always track any changes you notice and let your doctor know when new symptoms are concerning - this will help make sure this medicine is right for you.
Does Sulfaquin cause headaches?
Yes, headaches are a common side effect. If persistent or severe, consult a doctor.
Does Sulfaquin limit driving?
Sulfaquin may cause dizziness and vision problems, which can impair driving. Avoid driving if you experience these effects.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Sulfaquin?
No, alcohol can increase dizziness and worsen side effects like nausea and tinnitus. It also increases the risk of low blood sugar. It’s best to avoid alcohol while on Sulfaquin.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Sulfaquin?
Yes, but limit caffeine intake, as Sulfaquin can increase sensitivity to caffeine, causing jitteriness or heart palpitations.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Sulfaquin?
Light exercise is fine, but avoid intense physical activity if you experience dizziness, weakness, or heart palpitations.
What are Sulfaquin possible harms and risks?
Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and headache. Serious risks include Sulfaquin toxicity (cinchonism), which can cause vision changes, confusion, hearing loss, and heart problems. In rare cases, it can cause life-threatening low blood sugar and blood disorders.
Available in 6 variations
Sulfaquin 100mg Tablet
Sulfaquin 100mg Tablet
Quinine (100mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Sulfaquin Kid 300mg Tablet
Sulfaquin Kid 300mg Tablet
Quinine (300mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Sulfaquin 300mg Tablet
Sulfaquin 300mg Tablet
Quinine (300mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Sulfaquin 300mg Suspension
Sulfaquin 300mg Suspension
Quinine (300mg)
bottle of 60 ml Suspension
Sulfaquin 600mg Tablet
Sulfaquin 600mg Tablet
Quinine (600mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Sulfaquin 300mg Injection
Sulfaquin 300mg Injection
Quinine (300mg)
vial of 2 ml Injection
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