৳ 32/unit
Pack: ৳ 32
৳ 32/unit
Pack: ৳ 32
At a glance
Mefloquine is an antiparasitic medicine used for the treatment and prophylaxis of malaria. It acts as a blood schizonticide active against the erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium species.
Indications
- Acute malaria infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum (chloroquine-susceptible and resistant strains)
- Malaria caused by P. vivax
- Prophylaxis of P. falciparum and P. vivax malaria infections
Pharmacology
Mefloquine acts as a blood schizonticide active against the erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium species. It produces swelling of Plasmodium falciparum food vacuoles and forms toxic complexes with free heme, damaging membranes.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Acute malaria: 5 tablets (total 1250 mg) as a single dose OR 750 mg initially, then 500 mg 6-12 hours later
- Malaria prophylaxis: 250 mg once weekly (start 1-3 weeks before exposure, continue 4 weeks after leaving)
Children (6 months+): 20-25 mg/kg single dose (max 1250 mg) OR 15 mg/kg initially, then 10 mg/kg 6-12 hours later
Side effects
Prophylaxis (except <1%):
- Vomiting, dizziness, syncope, extrasystoles
Treatment:
- Dizziness, myalgia, nausea, fever
- Headache, vomiting, chills, diarrhea, skin rash
- Abdominal pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, tinnitus
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Mefloquine may be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies have shown harmful effects on the fetus. Consult your doctor.
Precautions & warnings
- May cause psychiatric symptoms (anxiety, paranoia, depression to hallucinations and psychotic behavior)
- Increased risk of seizures in patients with epilepsy
- Caution when driving, piloting aircraft, and operating machinery
- Prolonged elimination in patients with impaired liver function
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms more pronounced; induce vomiting or gastric lavage; monitor cardiac function, neurologic and psychiatric status; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.