Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 19, 2026

Measurement of Factor V Activity in Human Plasma Using a Microplate Coagulation Assay
Published on: September 9, 2012
Quinine-Induced Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Firas Abed1, Ramkaji Baniya2, Ghassan Bachuwa2
1Hurley Medical Center, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Flint, MI, USA; Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA.
Quinine, used for leg cramps, can cause rare but severe bleeding disorders like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Promptly identifying Quinine use is crucial for diagnosing and treating coagulopathy, preventing recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Quinine, an antimalarial, is widely used for nocturnal leg cramps.
- Its use is associated with severe hematological and cardiovascular risks.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare but serious side effect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of inquiring about Quinine use in patients with coagulopathy.
- To present a case of Quinine-induced DIC.
- To emphasize early diagnosis and management of drug-induced coagulopathies.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Review of patient medication history.
- Clinical diagnosis and management of coagulopathy.
Main Results:
- A middle-aged woman developed coagulopathy after self-medicating with Quinine for leg cramps.
- Early identification of Quinine as the causative agent led to prompt discontinuation.
- The patient experienced complete recovery and prevention of recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Quinine intake should be thoroughly investigated in patients presenting with coagulopathy.
- Recognizing Quinine as a potential cause of DIC is critical for effective patient management.
- Discontinuation of Quinine can lead to full recovery and prevent future complications.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Warfarin, a prominent vitamin K antagonist family member, exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1). By hindering this enzyme, warfarin...
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Oxidation of Phenols to Quinones
o-hydroxy phenols are oxidized to o-quinones and p-hydroxy phenols to p-quinones. Such redox reactions involve the transfer of two electrons and two protons. The reversible redox...
Inhibitors of Bacterial DNA Synthesis

