Lariam (mefloquine) is a medication used to treat malaria, a mosquito-induced illness endemic to Southern Asia, Africa and South America, says Drugs.com. Lariam destroys the parasites that cause malaria. Typically, you will take 1,250mg (five tablets) of Lariam in one sitting with at least 8 oz. of water, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Lariam's common side effects include a headache, cough, dizziness, weakness and itching. MedlinePlus indicates that Lariam can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, unsteadiness and trouble sleeping. Diarrhea and vomiting can cause you to become dehydrated. Physical manifestations of dehydration include dry oral mucus membranes and dry skin. Drink five to 10 glasses of water each day to rehydrate your body. These symptoms should not last more for than four to five days. Inform your doctor if Lariam's common effects last for more than five days. She may reduce your dose to prevent these symptoms from appearing.
Serious Side Effects
MedlinePlus indicates that Lariam can cause changes in your mental state, including confusion, depression, hallucinations, panic attacks, memory problems and aggression. Lariam can also cause paranoia, feelings of worry and suicidal thinking or actions. Other serious effects include seizures, trouble walking and hand or leg tremors. Seizures are physical manifestations of the disorganized electrical activity occurring in your brain. Seizures become potentially life-threatening when they last for more than 30 minutes. Notify your doctor when Lariam causes any of these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Lariam if you are allergic to mefloquine or any other antimalarial medications. A hypersensitivity response to Lariam includes difficulty breathing and swelling of your throat and tongue. The National Library of Medicine warns that Lariam should not be given with halofantrine or ketoconazole, as the combination can lead to QT prolongation, an electrical heart conduction disorder. Do not combine Lariam with quinine, as the combination can cause convulsions and heart rhythm abnormalities. Additionally, small amounts of Lariam pass into breast milk. Inform your physician if you are breastfeeding.
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