Mefloquine is indicated for:
Mefloquine causes swelling of the food vacuoles in Plasmodium falciparum and is thought to act by forming toxic complexes with free heme, which damage parasite membranes and interfere with essential cellular components. It is a blood schizonticidal antimalarial agent, active against the erythrocytic (blood) stage of malaria parasites. However, it does not act on the hepatic (liver) stage of the parasite. Mefloquine is also effective against chloroquine-resistant malaria strains. It is a chiral compound; studies suggest that the (+) enantiomer is more potent against malaria, while the (−) enantiomer binds to adenosine receptors in the central nervous system, which may be related to its neuropsychiatric side effects.
Adult:
In Children 6 Months and Older:
Geriatric Use: Experiences have not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients.
Should be taken with food. Best taken with meals & a full glass of water.
Mefloquine may interact with several medicines, leading to increased risks: Concomitant use with quinine, chloroquine, antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and phenothiazines may increase ECG abnormalities . Combined use with quinidine or quinine may increase seizure risk. Antiepileptic drugs such as valproic acid, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and phenytoin may have reduced plasma levels, leading to loss of seizure control. Increased risk of QT prolongation and arrhythmia with ketoconazole. Higher risk of cardiotoxicity when used with digoxin, calcium channel blockers, antiarrhythmics, and beta-blockers. Increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias with amiodarone. Increased risk of convulsions with TCAs, SSRIs, bupropion, antipsychotics, and tramadol. Metoclopramide may increase plasma concentration of mefloquine. May reduce immune response to live typhoid vaccine; live attenuated vaccines should be completed at least 3 days before starting therapy.
মেফ্লোকুইন বিভিন্ন ওষুধের সাথে ব্যবহার করলে পারস্পরিক ক্রিয়া দেখা দিতে পারে:
Mefloquine should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to mefloquine or related compounds such as quinine and quinidine. It is contraindicated for malaria prophylaxis in patients with active or recent depression, generalized anxiety disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, other major psychiatric disorders, or a history of seizures.
There are no adequate controlled studies in pregnancy. However, available clinical evidence has not shown clear teratogenic effects. Mefloquine should be used during pregnancy only if the expected benefit outweighs potential fetal risk.
Small amounts are excreted in breast milk, but infant safety is not fully established. A decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or the drug, depending on maternal treatment needs.
Warnings:Mefloquine may cause psychiatric reactions in some patients, ranging from anxiety, paranoia, and depression to hallucinations and psychotic behavior. Rare cases of suicidal thoughts and suicide have been reported, although a direct causal relationship has not been confirmed. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of depression. Concomitant use with quinine or quinidine may lead to ECG abnormalities and may increase the risk of seizures.
Precautions: Mefloquine may increase seizure risk in patients with epilepsy. Patients should exercise caution when performing activities requiring alertness and coordination, such as driving, operating machinery, or flying aircraft. It should be used carefully in patients with psychiatric disorders. In patients with liver impairment, drug elimination may be delayed, leading to increased plasma levels.
In case of overdose, symptoms may become more severe. Management includes:
Anti-malarial drugs
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.
What is Mefloquine for?
What does Mefloquine do?
What are the side effects of Mefloquine?
What happens if you take too much Mefloquine?
Can Mefloquine be taken during pregnancy?
