Can I take Naproxen and Quinine together?

Why this happens

Naproxen is an NSAID that thins the blood slightly by affecting platelets and can irritate the stomach lining. Quinine can also lower platelet counts in some people, leading to an additive effect on bleeding risk. Both drugs have the potential to affect the electrical activity of the heart (prolonging the QT interval), though this is rare at standard doses.

What you should do

Use this combination with caution. If you have a history of stomach ulcers, heart rhythm problems, or bleeding disorders, speak to your doctor before taking them together. Seek medical advice if you notice unusual bruising, black tarry stools, or if you feel dizzy or notice a fluttering sensation in your chest.

Important precautions

Asthma

Do not take naproxen if you have asthma that is sensitive to aspirin or other NSAIDs, as it can trigger a life-threatening asthma attack or severe breathing difficulties.

Stomach ulcers or bleeding

Naproxen can cause serious stomach ulcers and internal bleeding. This risk is higher if you have had ulcers before, are over 65, or take other blood-thinning medicines. Stop taking it and see a doctor immediately if you have black, tarry stools or vomit blood.

Blood disorders (Thrombocytopenia)

Quinine can cause a severe drop in platelets (thrombocytopenia), leading to dangerous internal bleeding. Stop taking it immediately if you notice unusual bruising or small purple spots on your skin.

Heart rhythm disorders

Quinine can cause serious, potentially fatal heart rhythm problems. Avoid if you have a history of 'long QT syndrome' or take other medicines that affect heart rhythm.

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or hearing loss

Quinine can cause permanent hearing damage or worsen existing tinnitus. Stop taking the medicine immediately if you notice any changes to your hearing or ringing in your ears.

Pregnancy

Quinine must be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as high doses can cause birth defects or miscarriage. It should only be used for malaria if the benefits outweigh the risks to the baby.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

Do not take naproxen if you are more than 20 weeks pregnant. It can cause serious kidney or heart problems in the unborn baby and may lead to complications during delivery.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking naproxen. Both alcohol and naproxen can irritate the lining of your stomach; combining them significantly increases your risk of developing stomach ulcers or internal bleeding.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking quinine. Both alcohol and quinine can affect your heart rhythm and cause dizziness; combining them may increase these risks.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while taking quinine. Grapefruit contains compounds that can increase the level of quinine in your blood, which makes side effects much more likely and potentially more serious.

Food (General)

You should take naproxen with or just after a meal or a snack. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach pain.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.