Side Effects of Mefloquine

Although most people do not experience problems while using mefloquine, side effects are possible. Some of the common reactions to this drug include vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. Serious problems have also been known to occur with this medication. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice difficulty breathing, hallucinations, seizures, or other potentially dangerous side effects.

An Introduction to Side Effects of Mefloquine

Just like any medication, mefloquine hydrochloride (Lariam®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with mefloquine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Serious Mefloquine Side Effects

Some possible side effects with mefloquine are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider.
 These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Serious mental health problems, such as:
    •  
    • Feeling anxious
    • Feeling paranoid, or mistrustful of others
    • Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there (hallucinations)
    • Depression
    • Feeling restless, nervous, or agitated
    • Confusion
    • Thoughts of suicide
 
  • Tingling or numbness of the skin
  • Coordination problems
  • Seizures
  • Memory problems
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
    •  
    • An unexplained rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the mouth or throat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.
 
Side Effects of Mefloquine Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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