Lariam

Mefloquine Hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Lariam, is a quinoline antimalarial presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It is used for the prevention of malaria infection and for the treatment of acute malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in adults and children.

GNH USA supplies Lariam as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Lariam is a quinoline antimalarial indicated for both prophylaxis and treatment of malaria infections. - Prevention of malaria infection: provides prophylactic protection for travelers and residents in endemic regions. - Acute malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum: treats established infection and helps clear parasites. - Acute malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax: treats infection and reduces relapse risk.

Mefloquine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset. - Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness. - Headache: persistent or intermittent. - Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep. - Vivid dreams: unusually intense or disturbing dreams. - Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Neuropsychiatric reactions: anxiety, depression, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts. - Severe allergic reactions: rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis. - Cardiac arrhythmia: irregular heart rhythm, especially in patients with QT prolongation. - Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis. - Seizures: convulsive episodes. - Visual disturbances: blurred vision or loss of visual acuity.

Before prescribing Lariam, clinicians should consider several safety factors. - Assess medical history: screen for psychiatric disorders or seizures. - Evaluate cardiac history: avoid in patients with known QT‑interval prolongation. - Review concomitant medications: check for potential drug interactions. - Use pregnancy caution: limited data; prescribe only if benefit outweighs risk. - Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Mefloquine may interact with other medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Antacids: reduce absorption of mefloquine. - CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin): decrease plasma concentrations. - QT‑prolonging agents (e.g., quinidine): increase risk of cardiac arrhythmia.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring. - Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs): potential for serotonin syndrome. - HIV protease inhibitors: may alter mefloquine metabolism and exposure.