How does it work?

Mefloquine belongs to a group of medicines called the antimalarials. It is used in both the prevention and treatment of malaria. Malaria is caused by an organism which is classed as a protozoa and is a parasite which is carried by mosquitoes. During a bite from a mosquito, the parasite passes into the body. Once inside, it lives and reproduces. This results in the infection known as malaria. In the blood, malaria parasites break down a part of the red blood cells known as haemoglobin. When this happens haemoglobin is divided into two parts; haem and globin. Haem is toxic to the malaria parasite. To prevent it from being damaged, the malaria parasite produces an chemical which converts the toxic haem into a non-toxic compound. The way mefloquine kills the malaria parasite is uncertain, however it is thought that it may interfere with the transport of haemoglobin products and other substances from the infected individual, to where the parasite stores it's food. When travelling to a part of the world where malaria is present it is important to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, as well as taking preventitive medication for the recommended time period before and after travelling. Mefloquine is usually used to prevent and treat a type of malaria, known as falciparum malaria which can be resistant to chloroquine.

What is it used for?

Prevention of malaria

Treatment of malaria caused by chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium vivax

Treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria

Warning!

This medicine may reduce your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you and you are sure it won't affect your performance.

To prevent malaria this medicine should be started preferably one week, but at least two days, before travelling to the malarious area. It should be taken regularly thoughout the stay and continued for four weeks after leaving the malarious area.

Effective contraception recommended during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose by manufacturer

If you should experience troublesome side effects from this medicine you should seek medical advice on alternative antimalarials before the next dose is due.

Use with caution in

Defects of the heart's electrical message pathways, causing irregular heartbeats (heart conduction defects)

Epilepsy

Infants under 3 months of age

Severely decreased liver function

Not to be used in

Allergy to quinine

History of convulsions, eg epilepsy

History of depression

History of psychotic illness

Severe liver impairment or epilepsy when used for prevention of malaria

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during pregnancy, therefore it is not recommended for use during pregnancy, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication with or after food.

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

This medication is to be taken with plenty of water.

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