Quinacrine
Quinacrine is an antiprotozoal medication historically used to treat malaria, giardiasis, and certain tapeworm infections. It works by interfering with nucleic acid synthesis in parasites. While largely replaced by newer agents in many countries, it remains important in treating resistant malaria and is sometimes used off-label for conditions like lupus.
Quinacrine is an antiprotozoal drug used to treat malaria, giardiasis, and tapeworm infections by inhibiting parasite nucleic acid synthesis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01AX05
- RxNorm
- 9061
- Generic
- Quinacrine
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment and prevention of malaria (particularly chloroquine-resistant strains), giardiasis (intestinal parasite infection), and tapeworm infections. Occasionally used off-label for cutaneous lupus erythematosus and other conditions.
Quinacrine accumulates in parasitized cells and intercalates into DNA, disrupting nucleic acid synthesis and interfering with the parasite's ability to metabolize hemoglobin and reproduce.
May cause yellow-orange discoloration of skin, urine, and sclera. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and dizziness. Contraindicated in patients with porphyria or psoriasis. Generally reserved for cases where first-line treatments are ineffective or contraindicated.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy