Mefloquine Hydrochloride
Mefloquine Hydrochloride is an orally administered antimalarial drug. It acts as a blood schizonticide, destroying malaria parasites that have infected red blood cells. It is primarily indicated for the prevention of malaria in travelers visiting malaria-endemic regions and for the treatment of mild to moderate acute malaria infections.
Dosage by Body Weight
For malaria prevention, the standard adult dose is 250 mg taken once weekly. This regimen should begin 1 to 2 weeks prior to entering the malaria-risk area, continue weekly during the stay, and persist for 4 weeks after departing the area. For acute malaria treatment, a higher dose is prescribed, typically administered in split doses to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. It should always be taken with food and a full glass of water.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in infants weighing less than 5 kg have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 31.25 mg (approx. 1/8 tablet)
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Tracking Notes
- Prophylaxis dose. Tablet must be crushed and suspended in water or milk. Administer with a meal.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 31.25 mg to 62.5 mg (approx. 1/8 to 1/4 tablet)
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Tracking Notes
- Prophylaxis dose. Administer with food to reduce risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 62.5 mg (1/4 tablet)
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Tracking Notes
- Prophylaxis dose. Tablet should be crushed and mixed with a sweet vehicle like jam or honey to mask the bitter taste.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 62.5 mg (1/4 tablet)
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Tracking Notes
- Prophylaxis dose. Monitor child closely for neuropsychiatric side effects or vomiting after administration.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in infants weighing less than 5 kg have not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | 31.25 mg (approx. 1/8 tablet) | Once weekly | Prophylaxis dose. Tablet must be crushed and suspended in water or milk. Administer with a meal. |
| 8-10 kg | 31.25 mg to 62.5 mg (approx. 1/8 to 1/4 tablet) | Once weekly | Prophylaxis dose. Administer with food to reduce risk of gastrointestinal irritation. |
| 11-15 kg | 62.5 mg (1/4 tablet) | Once weekly | Prophylaxis dose. Tablet should be crushed and mixed with a sweet vehicle like jam or honey to mask the bitter taste. |
| 16-20 kg | 62.5 mg (1/4 tablet) | Once weekly | Prophylaxis dose. Monitor child closely for neuropsychiatric side effects or vomiting after administration. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used for the prevention (prophylaxis) and treatment of malaria, particularly in areas where other malaria drugs may not be effective due to resistance.
Generic Name
Mefloquine HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Mefloquine Hydrochloride is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.