We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Medicine

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Most Common Mefloquine Side Effects?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,000
References
Share

Most mefloquine side effects are relatively mild and do not cause significant health risks, although serious complications are possible. Digestive disturbances, headaches, and dizziness are among the most frequently reported side effects of this anti-malarial drug. More serious mefloquine side effects that should be reported to a doctor right away include mood changes, hallucinations, and confusion. Uncontrollable muscle movements, seizures, and allergic reactions are potential complications of this medication. Questions or concerns about potential mefloquine side effects should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are some of the most common mefloquine side effects. These symptoms may be able to be alleviated by taking the medication with food or milk. Extra fluids should be consumed if these symptoms develop in order to prevent complications such as dehydration. Severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, or vomit resembling coffee grounds should be reported to a doctor for further evaluation.

Dizziness, drowsiness, and headaches are possible mefloquine side effects. Caution should be used when performing activities that require focus or concentration, such as driving or operating machinery. A sudden or severe headache may indicate a serious problem, such as stroke or aneurysm, and should be treated as a medical emergency.

Mental changes such as confusion, hallucinations, or delusions are among the more serious potential mefloquine side effects and should be reported to a medical professional immediately. Mood swings, agitation, or thoughts of suicide should also be reported right away. If a patient becomes violent or combative, emergency medical services should be contacted to assist with transportation to the nearest medical facility.

Tremors, uncontrollable muscle movements, and seizures may occur when taking this medication. Dosage changes may help reduce these symptoms, although the medication may have to be discontinued in some cases. Insomnia, vivid dreams, and muscle or joint pain are possible mefloquine side effects. Additional medications may be prescribed to treat pain or to help the patient sleep if these symptoms become particularly bothersome.

Allergic reactions to mefloquine can range from mild to severe in nature. Skin reactions may include itching, hives, or blistering of the skin. More severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, and facial swelling, are common symptoms of a potentially life-threatening type of allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Emergency medical care is vital any time that an allergic reaction is suspected because anaphylaxis often develops suddenly and can become fatal within a matter of minutes.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Link to Sources

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-most-common-mefloquine-side-effects.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.