Acridine derivative that intercalates into protozoal DNA, inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis. Also disrupts electron transport. Used for Giardia infections refractory to metronidazole and fenbendazole.
At a glance
Class
Acridine Dye Antiprotozoal
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Rescue therapy for giardiasis refractory to metronidazole and fenbendazole
Cats sensitive to quinacrine toxicity
Safety
Fecal Giardia antigen/PCR post-treatmentHepatic enzymesCBC
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Quinacrine?
Quinacrine is a acridine dye antiprotozoal used in pets. Acridine derivative that intercalates into protozoal DNA, inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis. Also disrupts electron transport. Used for Giardia infections refractory to metronidazole and fenbendazole.
›What is Quinacrine used for in pets?
Quinacrine is used in veterinary medicine for: Rescue therapy for giardiasis refractory to metronidazole and fenbendazole; Cats sensitive to quinacrine toxicity.
›What is the Quinacrine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Quinacrine is typically dosed as follows — Rescue therapy for giardiasis refractory to metronidazole and fenbendazole: 6.6 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Quinacrine dose for cats?
For cats, Quinacrine is typically dosed as follows — Cats sensitive to quinacrine toxicity: undefined undefined N/A N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Quinacrine need a prescription?
Yes. Quinacrine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →