Generic name: mefloquine [ MEF-loe-kwin ]
Brand name: Lariam
Dosage form: oral tablet (250 mg)
Drug class:Antimalarial quinolines
What is mefloquine?
Mefloquine is a medicine used to treat malaria, a disease caused by parasites. mefloquine works by interfering with the growth of parasites in the red blood cells of the human body.
Parasites that cause malaria typically enter the body through the bite of a mosquito. Malaria is common in areas such as Africa, South America, and Southern Asia.
Mefloquine is also used to prevent malaria.
Mefloquine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Some people taking mefloquine have had sudden serious psychiatric or nerve problems, some of which lasted long after they stopped taking this medicine. These side effects can be permanent.
Stop taking mefloquine and call your doctor right away if have any of these side effects: headache, ringing in your ears, dizziness, loss of balance, problems with coordination, anxiety, depression, paranoia, hallucinations, or thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
You should not take mefloquine to prevent malaria if you have a recent history of depression, an anxiety disorder, seizures, mental illness (such as schizophrenia), or psychosis.
