What should you know about mefloquine for malaria prophylaxis?

Mefloquine works against malaria parasites, but it does not protect against every travel infection and it is not a substitute for insect-bite prevention. Choice depends on the country and areas visited, resistance patterns, trip timing, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and your medical history. Some people develop vivid dreams, dizziness, sleep disturbance, anxiety, low mood, or other changes in thinking or behaviour.

Arrange a travel health consultation early enough to discuss alternatives and, when appropriate, try the medicine before departure. Take it exactly as prescribed and keep the schedule consistent; do not double a missed dose without advice. Use repellent, covering clothing, and suitable sleeping protection. Tell the prescriber about seizures, mental health conditions, heart rhythm problems, liver disease, and all medicines.

Stop and seek prompt medical advice if new anxiety, depression, hallucinations, severe confusion, unusual behaviour, balance problems, or troubling dreams begin. Seek urgent care for a seizure, fainting, severe allergic reaction, or serious breathing difficulty. Fever during or after travel to a malaria area needs urgent assessment even if you took prevention tablets.

Ask whether mefloquine suits your destination, when to start and stop it, what to do after vomiting or a missed dose, and which symptoms require a change of medicine. Confirm how to protect yourself from mosquito bites.