qst 150mg suspension - Quinine (150mg) medicine

Malianil Suspension (Quinine 150mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 McW Healthcare 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Quinine is classified as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Quinine crosses the placenta and may cause fetal harm. However, malaria in pregnancy can be severe, and treatment is essential. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe hypoglycemia (sweating, confusion, seizures)
  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Sudden vision loss or changes
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is qst 150mg suspension used for?

This medicine contains quinine, an antimalarial used to treat uncomplicated malaria. It works by killing the malaria parasite in the blood. It is not for prevention and should be taken exactly as prescribed.

  • Generic Name: Quinine (150mg)
  • Manufacturer: McW Healthcare
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 qst 150mg suspension के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा क्विनाइन नामक एंटीमलेरियल दवा है, जिसका उपयोग मलेरिया के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह मलेरिया परजीवी को मारकर काम करती है। यह दवा मलेरिया से बचाव के लिए नहीं है और इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और धुंधली दृष्टि शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर हाइपोग्लाइसीमिया, हृदय की अनियमित धड़कन और रक्त विकार शामिल हैं। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी चिकित्सीय स्थितियों के बारे में बताएं। इस दवा को शराब के साथ न लें। यदि आप गर्भवती या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें और कोर्स पूरा करें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 qst 150mg suspension Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Uncomplicated malaria","description":"This medicine is used to treat uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and other susceptible species.
  • It is often used when artemisinin-based combination therapies are not available or contraindicated.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Severe malaria","description":"In some settings, this medicine may be used as an adjunct or when parenteral therapy is not feasible, but it is not the first-line treatment for severe malaria.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Nocturnal leg cramps","description":"Quinine has been used off-label for nocturnal leg cramps, but this use is not recommended due to potential serious side effects and lack of consistent efficacy.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Nocturnal leg cramps","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label for nocturnal leg cramps, but this is not recommended due to risk of serious side effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Myotonia congenita","description":"Rarely used off-label for myotonia congenita, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Malaria

Also treats: Nocturnal leg cramps (off-label, not recommended)

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Quinine (150mg)
Brand Nameqst 150mg suspension
ManufacturerMcW Healthcare
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI MALARIALS
Action ClassAntimalarial- others
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture, unless otherwise specified on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization recommends artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) as first-line treatment for uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Quinine may be used as an alternative when ACTs are not available or contraindicated. For severe malaria, intravenous artesunate is preferred. Always follow national treatment guidelines.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research recommends ACTs for uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Quinine is an alternative in specific situations. For details, refer to the latest ICMR guidelines.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better.
3
Monitor your blood sugar levels if you are diabetic, as this medicine can cause hypoglycemia.
4
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to prevent worsening of side effects.
5
Report any visual changes, ringing in the ears, or unusual bleeding to your doctor immediately.
6
Do not use this medicine for leg cramps; it is not approved for that purpose.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Fever with chills
This medicine is commonly prescribed for malaria, which presents with fever and chills.
Likely Use
Leg cramps
This medicine is not recommended for leg cramps due to risk of serious side effects.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionQuinine is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The suspension formulation is designed to be absorbed similarly to other oral forms. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 1 to 3 hours after ingestion.
DistributionQuinine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the liver, spleen, kidneys, and central nervous system. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk. The volume of distribution is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 L/kg in adults.
Protein BindingQuinine is approximately 70% to 80% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein.
MetabolismQuinine is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP3A4, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6. The major metabolites are 3-hydroxyquinine and 2'-quininone, which have reduced antimalarial activity.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of quinine is approximately 8 to 12 hours in healthy adults, but it may be prolonged in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
ExcretionQuinine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. About 20% of the administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine, and the remainder is excreted as metabolites. Renal clearance is influenced by urine pH; acidic urine increases excretion.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of quinine is approximately 70% to 80% in healthy individuals. It may be reduced in patients with diarrhea or malabsorption.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antimalarial action is not immediate; it typically takes several hours to days to see clinical improvement. Fever may subside within 24 to 48 hours, but complete parasite clearance may take longer.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 1 to 3 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action depends on the dosing regimen and the half-life. With typical dosing every 8 hours, therapeutic levels are maintained throughout the day.

How It Works

Quinine, the active ingredient in this medicine, is a cinchona alkaloid that exerts its antimalarial effect by accumulating in the acidic food vacuole of the malaria parasite. It inhibits the heme polymerase enzyme, preventing the conversion of toxic heme into inert hemozoin. This leads to the accumulation of free heme, which is toxic to the parasite and causes its death. Additionally, quinine may interfere with the parasite's ability to transport and utilize nutrients, further contributing to its antimalarial activity.

Mechanism Steps

1
Accumulation in parasite food vacuole: Quinine enters the malaria parasite and concentrates in the acidic food vacuole where hemoglobin digestion occurs.
2
Inhibition of heme polymerase: Quinine inhibits the enzyme heme polymerase, which normally converts toxic free heme into inert hemozoin.
3
Accumulation of toxic heme: The buildup of free heme leads to oxidative damage and death of the parasite.
4
Parasite death: The toxic heme and other effects cause the parasite to die, clearing the infection.

💡 How to Take qst 150mg suspension

Strength: Each 5 mL of suspension contains 150 mg of quinine.

1Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medicine is evenly mixed.
2Measure the dose accurately using the measuring cup or syringe provided.
3Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
4Swallow the suspension directly; do not chew or crush.
5If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.
6Complete the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe adult dosage of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, severity of infection, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and other factors. For uncomplicated malaria, a typical regimen may involve an initial loading dose followed by maintenance doses every 8 hours for 3 to 7 days. However, exact dosing should be determined by your doctor. Do not self-medicate. Follow your prescription exactly.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially cardiac and hypoglycemic effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal and hepatic function. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Monitor renal function and adjust dose accordingly. Consult your doctor for specific guidance.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with hepatic impairment, dose reduction may be necessary due to reduced metabolism. Monitor liver function and adjust dose accordingly. Consult your doctor for specific guidance.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed the prescribed amount. Typically, the maximum daily dose for adults is not established from available information. Follow your doctor's prescription.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of hypoglycemia and side effects.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of qst 150mg suspension

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-20%))
Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If vomiting is severe, contact your doctor as it may affect absorption.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but consult your doctor first.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Blurred vision (Uncommon (1-5%))
If vision changes persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe hypoglycemia (Rare (<1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or seizures.
Cardiac arrhythmias (QT prolongation) (Rare (<1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, fainting, or shortness of breath.
Thrombocytopenia (Rare (<1%))
Report any unusual bleeding or bruising to your doctor immediately.
Hemolytic anemia (Rare (<1%))
Seek medical attention if you experience fatigue, jaundice, or dark urine.
Cinchonism (Uncommon (1-5%))
Symptoms include tinnitus, hearing loss, visual disturbances, nausea, and vomiting. Contact your doctor if these occur.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Optic neuritis
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden vision loss or changes.
Agranulocytosis
Report any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers.
Hypersensitivity reactions
Seek emergency help if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Digoxin Major
Amiodarone Major
Mefloquine Major
Cimetidine Moderate
Ritonavir Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Antacids Minor
Sucralfate Minor
Grapefruit juice Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Digoxin
  • QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol)
  • Mefloquine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Cimetidine
  • Ritonavir
  • Rifampicin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol may increase the risk of hypoglycemia and worsen side effects such as dizziness and nausea. It may also increase the risk of liver toxicity.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to quinine or any component of the formulation","History of blackwater fever","Optic neuritis","Prolonged QT interval or history of ventricular arrhythmias","Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency (relative contraindication)","Myasthenia gravis"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause severe hypoglycemia; monitor blood glucose closely.","Can cause QT prolongation; use with caution in patients with cardiac disease.","May cause cinchonism; monitor for tinnitus, hearing loss, and visual changes.","Avoid in patients with G6PD deficiency due to risk of hemolysis.","Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.","May increase risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants.","Do not use for prevention of malaria.","Not recommended for nocturnal leg cramps due to risk of serious side effects."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Quinine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks. Monitor the infant for signs of hypoglycemia or other adverse effects.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe cinchonism, cardiac arrhythmias, hypoglycemia, and blindness. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, gastric lavage, intravenous fluids, and management of arrhythmias. Monitor vital signs, blood glucose, and ECG closely.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially heart rhythm problems, kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or a history of blood disorders. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to quinine or any of its components. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of side effects. This medicine can cause dizziness or blurred vision; do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed; do not skip doses or take more than the recommended dose. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the cardiac and hypoglycemic effects of this medicine. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal and hepatic function. Close monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Quinine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as it may pose risks to the fetus. Discuss alternative treatments if possible.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently had surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with other medications used during surgery and affect blood sugar and heart rhythm.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interact with anesthetics or other medications used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated, especially if you have fever or vomiting.
🥗
Get plenty of rest to help your body fight the infection.
😴
Use mosquito nets and repellents to prevent re-infection.
💧
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🧘
Eat a balanced diet to support recovery.
🌞
Monitor your blood sugar if you are diabetic.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while you are recovering from malaria, as your body needs rest. Light activity may be okay if you feel up to it, but consult your doctor before resuming intense workouts.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Eat light, easily digestible meals if you have nausea.
Avoid grapefruit juice as it can interact with this medicine.
Include foods rich in iron and vitamins to aid recovery.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause dizziness and blurred vision, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. You may need to take time off work to rest and recover.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better. If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately; they will advise whether to stop.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not typically recommended unless under close medical supervision. Prolonged use can increase the risk of cinchonism, cardiac toxicity, and blood disorders. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function, and cardiac status may be required. Consult your doctor for guidance.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs)

First-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria, with fewer side effects and faster parasite clearance.

Evidence: Well-established
Preventive measures

Using mosquito nets, repellents, and prophylactic antimalarials can prevent malaria.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, if you are due for a vaccine, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label. Bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually, but consult your doctor for specific advice. Always carry enough medicine for your entire trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria
He was prescribed this medicine and took it with food as directed. His fever subsided within two days, but he continued the full course. He experienced mild nausea initially, which went away after a few doses. He was advised to avoid alcohol and monitor his blood sugar.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food and completing the full course is essential for effective treatment and preventing recurrence.
👤 A 28-year-old pregnant woman with malaria
She was treated with this medicine under close medical supervision. Her doctor monitored her blood sugar and fetal well-being. She delivered a healthy baby after completing the treatment.
💡 Lesson: Quinine can be used in pregnancy when necessary, but requires careful monitoring and medical supervision.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, taking it with food can help reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for qst 150mg suspension

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used to prevent malaria.
    Fact: This medicine is not for prevention. It is used only for treatment of active malaria.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for leg cramps.
    Fact: This medicine is not recommended for leg cramps due to serious side effects.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Quinine sulfate

Brand Alternatives

  • Malianil Suspension

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Quinine","class":"Cinchona alkaloid","primary_use":"Uncomplicated malaria","route":"Oral","notes":"Alternative when ACTs not available."},{"medicine":"Artemether-Lumefantrine","class":"Artemisinin-based combination","primary_use":"Uncomplicated malaria","route":"Oral","notes":"First-line therapy."},{"medicine":"Chloroquine","class":"4-aminoquinoline","primary_use":"Malaria (susceptible species)","route":"Oral","notes":"Resistance is common."}]

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