Mefloquine
Uses of Mefloquine
Mefloquine is commonly used to treat malaria and prevention of malaria.
How Mefloquine Works
Mefloquine is an antimalarial agent. It interferes with the Plasmodium's ability to metabolise and utilise the hemoglobin in red blood cells. It can also act as a preventive measures against malaria.
Side Effects of Mefloquine
Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Headache, Abnormal dreams, Insomnia, Depression, Anxiety, Visual impairment, Vertigo, Rash
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Mefloquine should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Mefloquine may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Mefloquine as it may have the potential to cause liver damage. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Mefloquine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Driving Not advisable
Mefloquine may cause side effects such as dizziness, headaches, nausea or tiredness, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive even after discontinuation of medicine but only temporary. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Limited Data
Mefloquine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Mefloquine may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it. It is not recommended in patients with severe liver disease.
Lactation Limited Data
Mefloquine is excreted into breast milk but its adverse effect on the feeding infant is largely unknown. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
