Hello,
I passed carefully through your concern and would conclude that your doctor's decision to stop quinine for
leg cramps is rational.
Quinine has been associated with serious hematologic adverse effects is is not considered a safe off-label treatment for leg and
muscle cramps.
Instead of immediately starting a therapy for such a disorder, it is necessary to perform a differential diagnosis in order to possibly find an exact cause of the cramps (such as myalgia, tetany, the
restless legs syndrome, and
peripheral vascular disease, etc.) guiding better the treatment.
Measures such as a good hydration, warm or cold compresses, exercising, or calf stretches may provide some benefit.
In addition, calcium channel blockers like
Diltiazem, and Vitamin B complex may also be effective.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care.
Regards,
Dr. Ilir Sharka, Cardiologist