Mefloquine

Mefloquine is an antimalarial medication used in the prevention and treatment of malaria. Mefloquine was first developed in the 1970s by the United States Army in an effort to combat malaria in soldiers. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, indicating its importance in a basic health system.

History

Mefloquine was developed during the Vietnam War due to the widespread resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to existing antimalarial drugs. The drug was commercialized by Hoffmann–La Roche under the trade name Lariam, and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1989.

Medical Uses

Mefloquine is used as a treatment for all types of malaria. It is also used as a preventative medication for travellers to areas where malaria is prevalent. Mefloquine is often used when other antimalarials, such as chloroquine or atovaquone-proguanil, are not suitable.

Side Effects

Common side effects of mefloquine include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects may include problems with vision, seizures, and heart problems. The drug is also known to cause neuropsychiatric effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.

Pharmacology

Mefloquine works by disrupting the growth of parasites in the red blood cells of the human body. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to inhibit the action of a parasitic enzyme.

Resistance

Resistance to mefloquine has been reported, particularly in areas of Southeast Asia. This has led to a decrease in the use of mefloquine in some areas, and an increase in the use of alternative antimalarial drugs.

See Also

• Antimalarial medication
• Malaria
• Plasmodium falciparum
• Chloroquine
• Atovaquone-proguanil