Indications
Lariam (mefloquine) is used to prevent or treat malaria. Lariam is a brand name for the antimalarial drug mefloquine. Mefloquine belongs to a group of medications called quinolones. It works by interfering with the growth of parasites in the red blood cells of the human body.
Mefloquine is used to prevent and treat malaria in areas where the Plasmodium falciparum parasite is known to be resistant to other antimalarial drugs like chloroquine. It is available as 250-mg tablets of mefloquine hydrochloride and is prescribed for prophylaxis or treatment of malaria in adults. The US Army first discovered it shortly after the Vietnam War, and subsequently marketed worldwide.
Use and Dosage
Mefloquine is an oral medication that comes in tablet form. It should be taken with food and at least 8 ounces of water. Swallow the tablets whole or crush and mix them with water, milk, or other beverages. If you are using mefloquine to prevent malaria, you will take it once a week on the same day each week. Your treatment will begin 1 to 3 weeks before your trip to a malaria-prone area and continue for 4 weeks after your return.
When using mefloquine to treat malaria, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how often to take it. Children may be given smaller but more frequent doses. Please follow the instructions on the prescription label very carefully and do not hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain anything you do not understand.
If you vomit less than 30 minutes after taking mefloquine, you should take another full dose, and for vomiting occurring after 30 to 60 minutes, you should take another half dose. If you vomit again after taking an extra dose, immediately contact your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Lariam (Mefloquine):
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Mild skin rash
- Muscle pain
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Lariam (Mefloquine):
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Clay-colored stools and
- Confusion
- Dark urine
- Depression
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
- Itching
- Lightheadedness
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of balance
- Nausea
- Paranoia
- Problems with coordination
- Ringing in your ears
- Seizure
- Severe anxiety
- Severe headache
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden headache
- Thoughts about suicide
- Tiredness
- Uneven heartbeats
- Unusual behavior
- Upper stomach pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Forms and Strength
Lariam (Mefloquine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Mefloquine: Tablet
- 250mg
Cautions
- Mefloquine should be used with caution in patients with a previous history of depression.
- Mefloquine may cause psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. Patients should be warned about the potential for these side effects and advised to seek medical attention if they occur.
- Mefloquine should not be taken by patients with a history of seizures, cardiac conduction disorders, or bradycardia.
- Mefloquine has been associated with rare but serious side effects such as liver problems, blood disorders, and allergic reactions. Patients should be advised to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any of these symptoms.
- Mefloquine should be used with caution in patients with a history of drug-induced psychiatric disorders or alcoholism.
- Patients with a history of seizures or cardiac arrhythmias should be monitored closely while taking mefloquine.
- Mefloquine should not be used during pregnancy except when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.
- Mefloquine may cause dizziness or vertigo, which could impair the ability to operate heavy machinery or engage in activities requiring alertness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Lariam (Mefloquine) safe for everyone to take?
Lariam (Mefloquine) is not safe for everyone to take. It should not be taken by patients with a history of seizures, cardiac conduction disorders, or bradycardia, and it should be used with caution in patients with a previous history of depression or drug-induced psychiatric disorders.
Can Lariam (Mefloquine) be used to treat other diseases besides malaria?
Lariam may have some effectiveness against other diseases, but it is not generally recommended or approved for those purposes.
How is Lariam (Mefloquine) different from other antimalarial medications?
Lariam (Mefloquine) is different from other antimalarial medications in several ways, including its dosing schedule and method of action. It is taken once a week, whereas some other medications must be taken daily. It also works by targeting different stages of the malaria parasite's life cycle than some other medications.
Can Lariam (Mefloquine) be taken in combination with other medications?
Lariam (Mefloquine) can be taken in combination with certain other medications, but patients should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any new medications while using Lariam.
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