Mefloquine tablets
What do mefloquine tablets do?
MEFLOQUINE (Lariam(R)) is an antimalarial agent. Mefloquine prevents and treats malaria infection, which is transmitted by mosquitos. This drug is commonly given prior to travel to an area where malaria is a common infection.
What should my health care professional know before I take mefloquine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• depression or history of mental problems
• eye disease
• heart disease
• liver disease
• seizures (convulsions)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to mefloquine, hydroxymefloquine, quinidine, quinine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take mefloquine tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take mefloquine with food and a full glass (8 ounces or 240 ml) of water. If you are taking mefloquine to prevent malaria, you should start taking it one week before entering the area, and continue for 4 weeks after leaving. Take your doses at regular intervals and on the same day of each week. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. If you are treating an acute malaria infection, you will receive a single dose of the drug. For prolonged travel in an area where malaria is common, consult your healthcare provider for proper dosing schedule.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a weekly dose, take it as soon as you can. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with mefloquine?
• beta-blockers
• chloroquine
• halofantrine
• quinidine
• quinine
• typhoid vaccine
• valproic acid
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking mefloquine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• blurred vision, or change in vision
• fainting spells
• fever or chills
• hearing problems
• headaches, confusion, or other mental changes
• joint or muscle aches
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• ringing in the ears
• seizures (convulsions)
• skin rash, itching (there may be severe itching without a rash)
• unusual changes in heart rate or other heart problems
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• drowsiness
• hair loss
• insomnia
• loss of appetite
• mild diarrhea
• nausea
• stomach pain or upset