How is Mefloquine used?
Mefloquine is one of a few medicines recommended by the CDC to prevent malaria, especially in areas where malaria has become resistant to other medications. It offers the advantage of being taken once a week rather than once a day. You should begin taking the medicine at least one week before deployment or as instructed by your health care provider. Continue taking it once a week during deployment, and take it for 4 weeks more after leaving a malaria area. It is easier to remember and more effective if you take the medicine on the same day of each week. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Mefloquine, since its use may interfere with the medication’s effectiveness and could strengthen the medication’s serious side effects. Mefloquine must be entered in your health record like other medications you may be taking.
