This page is factual information, not an advertisement. It is intended for people who are already using or considering our service and want to read about the treatments a prescriber may discuss with them. It is not a recommendation, and it does not mean any of these treatments is suitable for you. Suitability is decided only after a consultation and clinical assessment.
The condition it is used for
Mefloquine is a medicine taken weekly to prevent malaria for people travelling to areas where malaria is present.
What it is and how it is taken
Mefloquine is a prescription-only medicine taken by mouth as a tablet. It is taken as one tablet on the same day each week, usually started two to three weeks before travel so that tolerance can be assessed before you go, continued weekly while there, and continued for four weeks after leaving.
How it is usually used
The weekly schedule makes it convenient for longer trips. It is started before travel so any unwanted effects can be identified before you leave. It does not remove the need for insect bite prevention.
More common side effects
The more common side effects are vivid or disturbing dreams, disturbed sleep, dizziness, headache, nausea, anxiety and low mood.
Who it is generally not suitable for
It is generally not suitable for anyone with a current or previous history of depression, anxiety, psychosis or other psychiatric illness, or with epilepsy or a history of seizures.
Key safety points
- Stop taking it and seek medical advice promptly if you develop anxiety, low mood, restlessness, confusion or unusual behaviour, as these can be early signs of a more serious reaction.
- It can affect balance and coordination, which matters for diving and for driving.
- It does not remove the need for insect bite prevention.
- A full review of your medical and psychiatric history is part of the consultation.
Other options
Other medicines and approaches exist for malaria prevention, and which (if any) is suitable for you is decided at your consultation and travel health assessment.
If you experience a side effect from any medicine you can report it through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine.
Want to talk it through?
Whether any treatment is suitable for you is decided at a consultation. Arrange an assessment with our pharmacy team.