What is Lariam?
Lariam is an oral prescription medication used to prevent and treat malaria. Its active ingredient is mefloquine. This medicine is effective against malaria caused by the parasites Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. Lariam is particularly useful for malaria strains that are resistant to other drugs like chloroquine. It belongs to a class of drugs known as quinoline-methanols. These drugs are a key tool for travelers and residents in malaria-endemic areas.
How does Lariam work?
Lariam works by interfering with the growth of malaria parasites in red blood cells. Mefloquine, its active component, disrupts the parasite’s ability to break down hemoglobin. The parasite needs hemoglobin to survive and multiply. By blocking this process, Lariam kills the parasites and stops the infection. Its long half-life allows for convenient once-weekly dosing for prevention. This mechanism makes it effective against parasites that have developed resistance to other antimalarial drugs.
Who is Lariam for?
Lariam is for adults and children who are traveling to areas where malaria is common. It is prescribed for both prevention (prophylaxis) and treatment of the disease. This medication is a suitable choice for individuals visiting regions with chloroquine-resistant malaria. A doctor will evaluate your travel plans and medical history to decide if Lariam is right for you. It should not be used by patients with certain psychiatric or neurological conditions.
Dosage and administration
Lariam dosage and administration protocols depend on its use for prevention or treatment. For malaria prevention, adults typically take one 250 mg tablet once a week. You should start taking Lariam one to two weeks before your trip. Continue taking it weekly during your stay. You must also continue taking it for four weeks after leaving the area. For treating mild to moderate malaria, a larger single dose is usually required. Always take Lariam with a full glass of water and food to minimize stomach upset.
Side effects
Lariam may cause side effects, although many users experience none. Your doctor prescribes it when the benefits outweigh the risks. Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and strange or vivid dreams. More serious side effects are possible. These can include significant psychiatric events such as anxiety, depression, paranoia, or hallucinations. If you experience severe side effects like seizures or mood changes, stop taking Lariam and contact your doctor immediately. Seek emergency help for signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Why buy from IsraelPharm?
IsraelPharm provides a secure and convenient way to purchase Lariam for your travel needs. We source our medications from reliable manufacturers, ensuring you receive authentic and effective products. Our prices are competitive, and we offer discreet shipping directly to your home in the United States. With a focus on customer health and safety, our platform makes it easy to get the prescriptions you need. Trust IsraelPharm for your international travel health preparations.
Consult a healthcare professional for a full list of side effects. Common side effects may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Vivid or unusual dreams
- Difficulty sleeping
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. Stop taking Lariam and contact a doctor if you experience:
- Severe anxiety, paranoia, or depression
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Seizures
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)
Lariam (Mefloquine) is indicated for:
- Malaria Prevention (Prophylaxis): Reducing the risk of contracting malaria when traveling to areas where the disease is present.
- Malaria Treatment: Treating active malaria infections, including those caused by strains resistant to chloroquine.