Lariam

Mefloquine, the active ingredient in Lariam, is a quinoline antimalarial presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It treats and prevents malaria in travelers and residents of endemic areas.

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

Lariam is a quinoline antimalarial used to prevent and treat malaria infections.

- Prevention of malaria: provides prophylaxis for travelers to endemic regions. - Treatment of acute malaria: clears Plasmodium infection in patients with uncomplicated disease. - Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria: effective as a therapeutic option when resistance to other agents is a concern.

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

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: occasional upset stomach. - Vomiting: may occur after dosing. - Abdominal pain: mild discomfort in the stomach area. - Dizziness: transient light‑headedness. - Insomnia: difficulty sleeping. - Visual disturbances: blurred vision or altered perception.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Neuropsychiatric reactions: anxiety, depression, or psychosis. - Severe anxiety or panic attacks. - Seizures: rare convulsive events. - Cardiac arrhythmias: QT prolongation risk. - Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. - Hepatotoxicity: rare liver enzyme elevations.

Before prescribing Lariam, clinicians should evaluate patient history and monitor for specific risks.

- Medical history review: assess prior neuropsychiatric conditions. - Pregnancy considerations: avoid unless benefits outweigh potential risks. - Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for possible interactions. - Renal/hepatic function: adjust use if organ impairment is present. - Adherence: ensure patient completes the full prescribed course. - Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture.

Mefloquine can interact with several medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Antacids: may reduce absorption of mefloquine. - QT‑prolonging agents: increase risk of cardiac arrhythmia. - Strong CYP450 inhibitors: raise mefloquine plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect. - Carbamazepine: may reduce mefloquine efficacy. - Rifampicin: may lower plasma concentrations of mefloquine.