Unlike other
malaria medications, Lariam is not taken daily, but weekly. You need to take the Lariam tablet on the same day every week. You should take the first dose ten days and the second three days before you leave to make sure you tolerate the active ingredient
mefloquine.
You need to continue taking Lariam until four weeks after your return from a malaria area. It is important that you take the full course - stopping early increases your risk of getting malaria.
If despite having taken your mefloquine tablets, you notice any symptoms of malaria during your stay or after your return, you must seek medical attention immediately.
Lariam is not suitable for travellers with a history of mental health problems or seizures. It is not to be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. As with other malaria medication, there still remains a small risk of infection even if you have taken your tablets correctly. Avoid insect bites and use insect repellent as well as bed nets to minimise your exposure to the parasite.
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