Mefloquine (HCl)

Mefloquine (HCl) is antimalarial effective in the treatment and prevention of infections resistant to Chloroquine and other antimalarial. Mefloquine (HCl) is a synthetic 4-quinoline methanol derivative, chemically related to quinine. Mefloquine (HCl) is effective against Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae and multidrug resistant falciparum malaria. Mefloquine (HCl) is administered orally. May increase the risk of convulsion in epileptic patients. Also a risk of fatal arrhythmias if given together with Halofantrine.

Mefloquine (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Adjunctive therapy without valproate, Malaria caused by plasmodium falciparum, Malaria caused by plasmodium vivax, Malaria prophylaxis, To reduce degradation of pancreatic enzyme supplements, Uncomplicated malaria.

Mefloquine (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Epilepsy, Psychiatric disease, Hypersensitivity, History of depression, History of psychosis, Schizophrenia.

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Mefloquine (HCl), which give rise to further complications include Convulsions, Hallucinations, Stevens Johnson syndrome, Leucopenia, Seizures, Behavioral disorders. Mefloquine (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Aplastic Anemia, Exfoliative dermatitis, Cutaneous vasculitis. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Mefloquine (HCl) therapy. The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Mefloquine (HCl) include GI disturbances, Psychosis. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Mefloquine (HCl) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia, Diarrhea, Constipation, Urticaria, Pruritus, Vertigo, Asthenia, Arthralgia, Hair loss, Sinus bradycardia, Stomachache, Hearing disturbances, Pulse irregularities, Sialorrhea, Visual disturbances, tinnitus, Visual disturbances, Suicidal depression.

Mefloquine should be used with caution in patients with any psychiatric disorders, heart problems, seizure disorders and any allergy, especially allergy to other drugs. It should be used with caution in children. It should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy or lactation.

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers, Cardiac / Hypertensive Patients, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, patients suffering from Liver Malfunction, Geriatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

1250 mg (1200 (1250)) 24 hourly PO — For Malaria treatment. 250 mg (250 (250)) As recommended. PO — Weekly. For Malaria Prophylaxis

25 mg/kg (25 (25)) As recommended. Oral — Single dose

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

Mefloquine (HCl) is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementAmiodarone (HCl)This combination can prlong the QT interval may result in elevated risk of ventricular arrythmia including ventricular tachycardia and torsade depointes.MajorCautions and clinical monitoring are recommended.ArtemisininChloroquineDihydroartemisininConcomitant administration of mefloquine and dihydroartemisinin leads to a modest increase in mefloquine absorption rate.Diphenyl PyralineHalofantrine (HCl)Combination of halofantrine and mefloquine can result in high risk of ventricular arrhythmias due to dose related prolongation of QT interval.MajorTake ECG before starting halofantrine and monitor cardiac rhythm for 8 to 12 hours after completion of therapy.QuinidineQuinineQuinineSodium ValproateSulfadoxineVORICONAZOLEVoriconazole may increase the serum concentration of mefloquine by decreasing its metabolism. . Consider alternate therapy or monitor for changes in the therapeutic and adverse effects These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Tab Store Between 15°C-30°C. Protect from Sunlight and Moisture.