Drug reference
mefloquine
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Anti Parasitic (Anti Malaria)
Mechanism of action
Structural analog of quinine; exact mechanism unknown, acts as a blood schizonticide May increase intravesicular pH in parasites
Common side effects
- Insomnia
- Lightheadedness
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
Boxed warnings
- May cause neuropsychiatric adverse reactions that can persist after mefloquine has been discontinued Should not be prescribed for prophylaxis in patients with major psychiatric disorders During prophylactic use, if psychiatric or neurologic symptoms occur, the drug should be discontinued and an alternative medication should be substituted
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to mefloquine, related drugs (eg, quinidine, quinine) Do not prescribe for prophylaxis in patients with active or recent history of depression, generalized anxiety disorder; history of psychosis, schizophrenia, other major psychiatric disorders, or convulsions
Known interactions (1)
- chloroquine + mefloquine Major
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is mefloquine?
mefloquine belongs to: Anti Parasitic.
How does mefloquine work?
Structural analog of quinine; exact mechanism unknown, acts as a blood schizonticide May increase intravesicular pH in parasites
What are the common side effects of mefloquine?
Insomnia, Lightheadedness, Headache, Anxiety, Difficulty concentrating
Which drugs interact with mefloquine?
chloroquine
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