Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets IP

What is Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets IP?

Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets IP is an antimalarial medicine used to treat and prevent malaria, especially in areas where malaria parasites have become resistant to other drugs. It belongs to the class of medications called quinoline methanols, and works by attacking the Plasmodium parasites in the blood, particularly Plasmodium falciparum.

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💊 What is the Use of Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets?

Mefloquine is used for:

• Treatment of acute malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax

• Prevention (prophylaxis) of malaria in travelers visiting endemic areas

It is especially effective in chloroquine-resistant malaria cases.

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✅ Benefits of Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets IP:

• Highly effective against drug-resistant strains of malaria

• Can be used for both treatment and prevention

• Convenient once-weekly dosing for prophylaxis

• Reduces severity and duration of malaria symptoms

• Suitable for use in travelers, military personnel, and people in high-risk regions

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⚠️ Side Effects of Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets:

Like all medications, Mefloquine can cause side effects, which vary in intensity.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headache

• Abdominal pain

• Sleep disturbances (e.g., vivid dreams or insomnia)

Serious Side Effects (seek medical advice):

• Anxiety, depression, or mood changes

• Hallucinations or confusion

• Seizures (rare but serious)

• Irregular heartbeat

• Vision changes

Patients with a history of mental health disorders or seizures should avoid using mefloquine.

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📝 Important Notes:

• Start prophylactic treatment 1–2 weeks before travel and continue for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area

• Take with food and a full glass of water to reduce stomach upset

• Not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed

• Consult your doctor before use, especially if you have psychiatric or neurological conditions

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🧊 Storage:

• Store below 30°C, in a dry place

• Keep away from children, heat, and direct sunlight

1. What is Mefloquine Hydrochloride Tablets IP used for?
   It is used for both the treatment and prevention of malaria, especially caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including drug-resistant strains.

2. How does Mefloquine work?
   Mefloquine kills the malaria parasites in the blood by interfering with their growth and reproduction.

3. When should I start taking Mefloquine for malaria prevention?
   You should start taking it 1 to 2 weeks before travel to a malaria-endemic area, and continue during travel and for 4 weeks after leaving.

4. How often should I take Mefloquine for malaria prophylaxis?
   Once weekly, on the same day each week, with food and water.

5. Can Mefloquine be used for children?
   Yes, but the dosage is based on body weight and should be prescribed by a doctor.

6. What are the common side effects of Mefloquine?
   Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, headache, vivid dreams, insomnia, and stomach upset.

7. Are there any serious side effects of Mefloquine?
   Rare but serious effects include anxiety, depression, hallucinations, seizures, and heart rhythm problems.

8. Can I take Mefloquine if I have a mental health condition?
   No, it is contraindicated in people with a history of anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, or seizure disorders.

9. Is Mefloquine safe during pregnancy?
   Mefloquine may be used during pregnancy if clearly needed, especially for travelers in high-risk malaria areas — but consult your doctor first.

10. Can Mefloquine be taken with food?
    Yes, it is best taken with food and a full glass of water to minimize stomach discomfort.

11. What should I do if I miss a dose?
    Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue as scheduled. Do not double the dose.

12. Can I drink alcohol while taking Mefloquine?
    It’s best to avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and confusion.

13. Does Mefloquine interact with other medications?
    Yes. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially for heart, mental health, or seizures.

14. How long should I continue Mefloquine after leaving a malaria zone?
    Continue for 4 weeks after exposure to ensure any remaining parasites are eliminated.

15. Is Mefloquine the same as chloroquine?
    No, Mefloquine is a different medication and is often used when chloroquine resistance is a concern.