Mefloquine

Available by prescription only, mefloquine is approved for treating or preventing malaria. It works by killing the parasite that causes this blood infection. The drug comes in tablet form and is taken as either a one-time dose or on a weekly basis, depending on the purpose for using it. Side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches.

What Is Mefloquine?

Mefloquine hydrochloride (Lariam®) is a prescription medication licensed to prevent or treat malaria.
 
(Click What Is Mefloquine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, mefloquine can cause side effects.
 However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.
 
Common side effects of mefloquine include but are not limited to:
 
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal (stomach) pain
  • Dizziness, spinning sensation (vertigo), or loss of balance
  • Headaches
  • Problems sleeping, including strange dreams.
     
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
(Click Side Effects of Mefloquine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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