How should I take mefloquine?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
It is important to use this medication regularly (before, during and after travel) to best prevent malaria. If you stop using the medication early for any reason, talk to your doctor about other forms of malaria prevention.
Take mefloquine just after your main meal.
Take this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
If you have trouble swallowing the mefloquine tablet, you may crush the tablet and mix it into a small glass of milk, water, or other beverage to make swallowing easier.
If you vomit within 30 minutes after taking mefloquine, take another full dose. If you vomit 30 to 60 minutes after taking the medicine, take another half dose. If your vomiting continues, call your doctor.
If you are taking this medicine to prevent malaria:
- Mefloquine is usually taken once per week to prevent malaria.
- Start taking the medicine 1 to 3 weeks before entering an area where malaria is common. Continue taking the medicine once weekly during your stay and for at least 4 weeks after you leave the area.
- Take your weekly dose on the same day each week.
- If you stop taking the medicine early for any reason, contact a healthcare professional about another form of malaria prevention.
If you are taking mefloquine to treat malaria:
- Take as directed by your doctor.
In addition to taking mefloquine, use protective clothing, insect repellents, and mosquito netting around your bed to further prevent mosquito bites that could cause malaria.
If you use this medication long-term, you may need frequent blood tests to check your liver function. Your vision may also need to be checked.
Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have been exposed to malaria, or if you have fever or other symptoms of illness during or after a stay in an area where malaria is common.
No medication is 100% effective in treating or preventing malaria. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if you have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea during your treatment.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.