Lariam (Mefloquine)

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

~90% effective in majority of malaria-infected areas.

Weekly tablet, convenient for long-term travel.

Disadvantages:

• Possible side effects include headache, depression, nausea, vivid dreams, anxiety.
• Possible, but rare psychosis or seizures (1 in 10,000 users).
• Cannot be used if past history of epilepsy, depression or anxiety.
• Not recommended for pilots or scuba divers.

There is increasing Mefloquine resistance in the Thai-Myanmar-China and Thai-Cambodia-Vietnam-Lao border regions. There are also reports of resistance from the Amazon region and parts of sub-Saharan Africa, including Tanzania and Madagascar, making the drug a less effective option.

Side Effects

Possible mild reactions:

• Headache, dizziness
• Visual disturbances
• Confusion
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Skin rash
• Aching muscles or weakness
• Vivid dreams

Rare, more serious reactions:

• Depression, anxiety, confusion
• Psychosis
• Hypotension
• Visual illusions
• Seizures (fits)

For those travellers who have not previously taken Mefloquine, it is advisable to undertake a 2-4 week trial before departure to ensure the medication is tolerated. Most people will have only minimal or no side effects.

IMPORTANT: As with all types of anti-malaria medication you should:

• Take the medication as prescribed.
• Side effects may be accentuated by excessive alcohol or drug use within 2-3 days of taking Mefloquine - avoid use during this time.
• Take the full course (continue for 4 weeks after your return).
• Take medication with or after food; washed down with a full glass of water.
• Take medication at least 2 hours before lying down.

More information on this and other anti-malaria medication options is available during your pre-travel consultation with Travelvax. Call 1300 360 164 for the location of the clinic nearest to you.