Mefloquine (Systemic)

Brand Names : Lariam

Precautions While Using This Medicine

Mefloquine may cause vision problems. It may also cause some people to become dizzy or lightheaded or to have hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there). Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert or able to see well . This is especially important for people whose jobs require fine coordination. If these reactions are especially bothersome, check with your doctor.

Malaria is spread by the bite of certain kinds of infected female mosquitoes. If you are living in, or will be traveling to, an area where there is a chance of getting malaria, the following mosquito-control measures will help to prevent infection:

• If possible, sleep under mosquito netting, preferably netting coated or soaked with pyrethrum, to avoid being bitten by malaria-carrying mosquitoes.
• Remain in air-conditioned rooms to reduce contact with mosquitoes
• Wear long-sleeved shirts or blouses and long trousers to protect your arms and legs, especially from dusk through dawn when mosquitoes are out.
• Apply mosquito repellant, preferably one containing DEET, to uncovered areas of the skin from dusk through dawn when mosquitoes are out.
• Using a pyrethrum-containing flying insect spray to kill mosquitoes in living and sleeping quarters during evening and nighttime hours.

If you are taking quinidine (e.g., Quinidex) or quinine, talk to your doctor before you take mefloquine. While you are taking mefloquine, take mefloquine at least 12 hours after the last dose of quinidine or quinine . Taking mefloquine and either of these medicines at the same time may result in a greater chance of serious side effects.

If you are taking anticonvulsants (e.g., Tegetrol, Dilantin), halofantrine (e.g., Halfan), or typhoid vaccine, talk to your doctor before you take mefloquine. Taking mefloquine and any of these medicines at the same time may result in a greater chance of serious side effects.

For patients taking mefloquine to treat malaria :

• If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.