Lariam 250mg Tablets: Experiences and Advice Needed - Preventing Malaria
Has anyone taken Lariam (mefloquine) 250mg tablets for malaria prevention? I'm heading to a region with high malaria risk and need advice. How effective is this drug? Did you experience side effects? I've heard horror stories about psychiatric side effects, but also many positive experiences. Would love to hear your stories and advice. I know it's taken once a week, but when in the week is best?
I've taken Lariam for multiple trips to Africa and never had side effects. It was great for peace of mind. Just make sure to start taking it a week before you go and keep taking it weekly while you're there, and 4 weeks after you return.
I didn't have any side effects from Lariam but a friend of mine had to stop taking it because of severe anxiety and depression. It's definitely a risk to consider. I'd recommend talking to a doctor about your personal risk factors.
A quick question: how does Lariam compare to Malarone in terms of side effects and effectiveness? I'm trying to decide which to take for my trip.
I've used Lariam a few times and it was fine but I had more trouble with malaria than I expected in a country that had been very safe for years. It only happened once during the trip but it was enough to make me wary. I tried to get a second opinion but it was the same. The doctor said that it wasn't necessarily the drug! I was fine when I got back.
I took Lariam for a trip to Southeast Asia and had no issues. I did take a malaria test after I got back and it was good. Just make sure to follow the dosing schedule closely. I always took mine on a Sunday so I didn’t forget.
I've used Lariam for a couple of trips and it was fine. No side effects at all. The only way I was reminded to take it was to keep a pill planner and to set a reminder on my phone. It's pretty effective but you should be aware of malaria and keep yourself clean.