Product image of Lariam (Mefloquine) supplied by GNH India

Lariam

Active Ingredient:
Mefloquine
Origin:
EU

Lariam (Mefloquine)

Mefloquine, the active ingredient in Lariam, is a quinoline-methanol antimalarial presented as a tablet for oral use. It is used for prophylaxis and treatment of malaria caused by susceptible Plasmodium species in adults and children.

GNH India supplies Lariam as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Cheplapharm Arzneimittel Gmbh

1
Pack/s
This product is added to your enquiry list

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below and our team will get back to you shortly with pricing and further information.

A minimum order value applies. Our team will confirm the exact amount or quantity after reviewing your requirements.

Indications & Clinical Uses

Mefloquine is an antimalarial drug that acts against Plasmodium parasites.

  • Prophylaxis of malaria: prevents infection in travelers and residents of endemic areas.
  • Treatment of acute malaria: clears parasites in symptomatic infection caused by susceptible Plasmodium species.

How It Works

  • Mefloquine disrupts parasite membrane function and interferes with hemoglobin detoxification pathways within Plasmodium species. By impairing heme polymerization, toxic heme accumulates, leading to parasite death and clearance of the infection.

Side Effects

Mefloquine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
  • Vomiting: occasional episodes after dosing.
  • Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort.
  • Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
  • Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep.
  • Headache: mild to moderate tension‑type pain.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Neuropsychiatric reactions: anxiety, depression, psychosis, or seizures.
  • Severe allergic reactions: rash, angioedema, or anaphylaxis.
  • Cardiac arrhythmias: QT prolongation or other rhythm disturbances.
  • Hepatic toxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
  • Visual disturbances: blurred vision or photopsia.
  • Peripheral neuropathy: tingling or numbness in extremities.

Precautions & Warnings

Mefloquine requires careful assessment before use to minimise risk.

  • Pregnancy: contraindicated (Category D) due to potential fetal harm.
  • Psychiatric history: evaluate for depression, anxiety, or psychosis before prescribing.
  • Concomitant medications: review for drugs that may affect cardiac rhythm or CNS.
  • Renal/hepatic impairment: consider dose adjustment or alternative therapy.
  • Driving or operating machinery: avoid if experiencing dizziness or visual changes.
  • Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Avoid Interactions

Mefloquine can interact with several medicines; some require avoidance while others need monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • QT‑prolonging agents: increase risk of cardiac arrhythmia.
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, rifampicin): reduce mefloquine plasma levels.
  • Anticonvulsants: may diminish antimalarial efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Antacids: may affect absorption; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.
  • Warfarin: monitor INR for potential anticoagulant effect changes.
  • Oral contraceptives: efficacy may be reduced; advise additional contraceptive measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lariam (mefloquine) is prescribed for the prophylaxis and treatment of malaria caused by Plasmodium species that are susceptible to the drug. It is used by travelers to endemic regions and by patients with acute malaria infections.

Mefloquine interferes with the parasite’s ability to detoxify hemoglobin by disrupting membrane function and inhibiting heme polymerization. This leads to toxic heme accumulation inside the parasite, causing its death.

The dose of Lariam is determined by the prescribing clinician based on the patient’s age, weight, indication (prophylaxis or treatment), and local resistance patterns. Patients should follow the prescriber’s instructions exactly.

Lariam is classified as Pregnancy Category D, indicating evidence of risk to the fetus. It is generally avoided in pregnancy and not recommended while breastfeeding unless the benefits outweigh the risks and are approved by a healthcare professional.

To order Lariam, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com specifying the required quantity. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any required import documentation.

Compared with other antimalarials such as chloroquine or artemisinin‑based combinations, mefloquine offers a long half‑life allowing weekly dosing for prophylaxis, but it has a higher incidence of neuropsychiatric side effects. Choice of therapy depends on resistance patterns, patient tolerance and clinical guidelines.

Lariam tablets should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in the original packaging to protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and do not use if the packaging is damaged.

Lariam is taken orally with a full glass of water, preferably with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset. For prophylaxis, it is usually started 1–2 weeks before travel, taken weekly during exposure, and continued for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area.

The most serious risks include neuropsychiatric reactions such as severe anxiety, depression, psychosis, seizures, and rare cardiac arrhythmias. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience mood changes, visual disturbances, or heart palpitations.

Lariam should not be used by individuals with a history of severe psychiatric disorders, known hypersensitivity to mefloquine, pregnant women (Category D), or patients taking medications that significantly prolong the QT interval or induce CYP3A4 metabolism without medical supervision.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

Disclaimer

At GNH India, we aim to provide information that is expert-reviewed, accurate, and reliable. However, all content on this platform is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While efforts are made to maintain accuracy and currency, the information may contain errors, omissions, or may not reflect the latest developments. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.

All product names, brand names, trademarks and registered trademarks displayed on this website are the property of their respective owners. This website and its operator are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized by any such trade mark owners unless expressly stated. Any reference to product names or trademarks is made solely for descriptive and informational purposes. No commercial relationship, sponsorship, approval, or association with any trademark owner should be inferred. Information provided herein does not constitute promotion, advertising, or an offer for sale of any medicinal product and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

All trademarks and brand names displayed on this website are used strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, specifically Sections 30 and 30(1) governing fair use. Trademark ownership has been accurately attributed under the "Manufacturer/ TM Owner" section in compliance with statutory requirements.

Related Products

Other formulations containing Mefloquine

A

A
A

A
A

A
A

A

Browse all products →

Ordering Process

Simple, Secure, and Seamless

Learn how our streamlined ordering process guarantees fast, compliant, and reliable access to essential medicines worldwide.

Quote request form

01

Submit Quote Request Form

Tell us what medications you need by filling out our simple form and uploading a valid document.

Price estimate review

02

We Review & Send Estimate

Our licensed pharmacists will verify your details and provide you with a detailed cost estimate.

Secure payment

03

Confirm & Make Payment

Discuss any queries, approve the estimate, and complete your payment.

Worldwide delivery

04

Get Delivered

Your medicines, safely packed and delivered to your door or nearest airport — hassle-free.

Regulatory recognitions

Quality You Can Trust

Our internationally recognized certifications underscore our commitment to safety, quality, and excellence.

SGS GSDP Certification

GSDP Compliant from SGS

URS ISO 9001

URS ISO 9001 Certification

FDA Maharashtra

Licensed by FDA Maharashtra

IEC License DGFT

IEC License issued by DGFT