What does it do?

Mefloquine is used to prevent and treat malaria.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have mental health problems, an allergy to quinine, or if you have ever had a seizure.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take mefloquine as directed with food and a glass of water.

Sometimes mefloquine can make you feel sick or vomit. Taking the tablet with food may help prevent this. If you vomit within 30 minutes of taking mefloquine, you will need to take another tablet. If you vomit within 30 to 60 minutes of taking mefloquine, you will need to take another half a tablet.

What if you forget a dose?

For prevention: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember and then take your next dose on your usual day.

For treatment: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Seizures, unusual behaviour or thinking, suicidal thoughts Short of breath, persistent dry cough	Tell your doctor immediately
Anxiety, hallucinations, low mood Balance problems Hearing loss, changes in vision	Tell your doctor
Headache, dizziness Trouble sleeping, strange dreams, drowsiness	Tell your doctor if troublesome
Nausea, vomiting	See 'How should you take it?' section

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Mefloquine can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)