Quinine

Definition

Quinine is a naturally occurring alkaloid used primarily as an antimalarial drug. It interferes with the parasite's ability to digest hemoglobin, leading to its death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Quinine is derived from the bark of the cinchona tree.
2. It has been historically significant in the treatment of malaria caused by Plasmodium species.
3. Quinine can cause side effects such as cinchonism, which includes symptoms like tinnitus, headache, and nausea.
4. Resistance to quinine is increasing among Plasmodium falciparum strains.
5. Apart from malaria, quinine has been used in the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps and arthritis.

Review Questions

Related terms

Artemisinin: An antimalarial drug derived from the sweet wormwood plant.

Cinchona Bark: The natural source of quinine, historically used by indigenous people for treating fevers.

Plasmodium falciparum:

A species of parasitic protozoa that causes malaria in humans.