Mefloquine
Antimalarial · 4-Methanolquinolone
Indications
Prophylaxis of malaria.
Dosage
Adults: Prophylaxis: 1 tab wkly. Children: Prophylaxis: Under 5 kg: Not recommended. 5-19 kg: ¼ tab; 20-30 kg: ½ tab; 31-45 kg: ¾ tab; over 45 kg: 1 tab. The dose should be taken once wkly after meal on the same day for minimum 6 wk, starting at least 1 wk and up to 2-3 wk before departure and continuing for 4 wk on return. Max period of prophylaxis: 12 mth.
Adverse Effects
Dizziness, loss of balance, neuropsychiatric reactions; caution if driving or operating machinery up to 3 weeks after medicine, nausea, vomiting, GI upset, loss of appetite, headache, somnolence, sleep disorders. Rarely sensory and motor neuropathies, convulsions, visual disturbances, tinnitus, changes of mood, cardiovascular effects, skin reactions, muscle pain or weakness, in case of neuropsychiatric reactions withdraw prophylactic use, re-evaluate need for alternative malaria prophylaxis.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Positive evidence of risk: Use only when no safer alternative exists for a serious problem. Lactation: Caution advised or effect undetermined. Contraindications: For prophylaxis: Severe hepatic impairment, history of psychiatric disorders, convulsions or depression, sensitivity to quinine. Precautions: Women of child bearing age must use reliable contraception during and for 3 months after therapy. Renal impairment, epilepsy, cardiac conduction disorders, discontinue if psychiatric reactions occur during prophylactic use.
Interactions
Quinine and related compounds, halofantrine, drugs affecting cardiac conduction, anticonvulsants, oral live typhoid vaccine.
Advice to Patient
Take with meals with a full glass of water. Complete full course of therapy, it may take several months. Contact prescriber immediately if there is change in vision, change in hearing, ringing in ears, unusual fatigue, confusion, depression, anxiety, nervousness, restlessness. Avoid alcohol during therapy. If you are using this medication for long period of time, have regular eye examinations.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well-absorbed from the GI tract. Metabolism: Hepatic. Half-life elimination: 2-4 wks. Excretion: Faeces (mainly). Urine (small amounts).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.