Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Mefloquine is employed in the treatment of malaria, a severe infection transmitted by mosquitoes in specific regions of the worldl. Additionally, it is used for the prevention of malaria in travelers visiting areas where the disease is prevalent. Mefloquine belongs to a class of medications known as antimalarials and operates by eliminating the organisms responsible for causing malaria.
Uses and Dosage
Mefloquine is administered in tablet form, taken orally. Always consume mefloquine with food, preferably your main meal, and accompany it with at least 8 ounces (240 milliliters) of water. If you are using mefloquine for malaria prevention, you will likely take it once a week, consistently on the same day each week. Initiate treatment 1 to 3 weeks prior to traveling to a malaria-prone area and continue the regimen for 4 weeks after returning.
If mefloquine is being used to treat malaria, your doctor will specify the frequency of administration. Children may receive smaller but more frequent doses of mefloquine.
Adhere to the prescribed dosage and do not exceed or decrease it, nor take it more frequently than instructed by your doctor.
The tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with water, milk, or another beverage.
For those taking mefloquine to treat malaria, vomiting may occur shortly after ingestion. If vomiting occurs less than 30 minutes after taking mefloquine, a full dose should be retaken. If vomiting occurs between 30 and 60 minutes after ingestion, a half dose should be retaken. If vomiting persists even after the additional dose, contact your doctor for further guidance.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- fever
- diarrhea
- pain on the right side of your stomach
- loss of appetite
- muscle pain
- headache
- sleepiness
- increased sweating
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- tingling in your fingers or toes
- difficulty walking
- light-colored bowel movements
- dark colored urine
- yellowing of your skin or the white of your eyes
- itching
- shaking of arms or legs that you cannot control
- changes in vision
- muscle weakness
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- panic attack
- rash
Caution
- Before starting mefloquine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to mefloquine, quinine, quinidine, or any other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product may also trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have mental/mood disorders, seizures, heart problems, or liver disorders.
- Mefloquine may induce dizziness or affect your balance. The use of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely.
- Mefloquine might reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines. Inform your healthcare professional about your use of mefloquine before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations.
- During pregnancy, use mefloquine only if clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to evaluate potential risks and benefits.
Form and Strength
Lariam is available in the following forms and strengths:
- mefloquine tablet:
- 250 mg
FAQ
Is Lariam only for adults?
Children can also take Lariam, but it is considered a last-choice option for children because of the possibilities of mood changes.
Can I mix Lariam into food?
Yes, Lariam can be crushed and mixed with water, milk or other drinks if you have trouble swallowing tablets.
