Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Are Mefloquine And USP Advisable For Malaria?
I was given four pills..white with #54 and 111 on one side and was given four pills sealed in silver with mefloquine HCl tablet USP 250 mg to treat or prevent malaria since I will be traveling to Africa soon. Are the pills the same and are their safer drugs I can take? Thanks for your help.
Wed, 21 Mar 2018
Hello,
Yes, either of these pills is advisable for malaria. The white pills bearing an imprint of "54 111" on one side and a dividing line on the other side contains the antimalarial drug Mefloquine which is same as that of Mefloquine HCl USP. It can be used to treat or prevent malaria.
Since you're planning to travel to Africa, should take one dose of Mefloquine per week starting at least two weeks before traveling to Africa. Then you should continue taking one dose per week while there, and for four consecutive weeks after leaving.
Generally, it is well-tolerated, however, it can cause dizziness, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, vivid dreams, and visual disturbances. In rare instances, it can cause seizures, depression, and psychosis. When they occur, these side effects start within the first few doses of the medicine.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali
Yes, either of these pills is advisable for malaria. The white pills bearing an imprint of "54 111" on one side and a dividing line on the other side contains the antimalarial drug Mefloquine which is same as that of Mefloquine HCl USP. It can be used to treat or prevent malaria.
Since you're planning to travel to Africa, should take one dose of Mefloquine per week starting at least two weeks before traveling to Africa. Then you should continue taking one dose per week while there, and for four consecutive weeks after leaving.
Generally, it is well-tolerated, however, it can cause dizziness, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, vivid dreams, and visual disturbances. In rare instances, it can cause seizures, depression, and psychosis. When they occur, these side effects start within the first few doses of the medicine.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali
I find this answer helpful
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....