Meflokiini

Meflokiini is a prescription medication primarily used for the prevention and treatment of malaria. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antimalarials. Meflokiini is effective against certain strains of the Plasmodium parasite, which causes malaria. It works by interfering with the parasite's ability to metabolize hemoglobin, a process essential for its survival within the red blood cells.

The decision to use meflokiini for malaria prevention, also known as chemoprophylaxis, is typically made based on factors such as the traveler's destination, the prevalence of drug-resistant malaria in that region, and individual risk factors. It is generally taken once a week, starting a few weeks before travel to an endemic area, continuing during the stay, and for a period after returning. For treatment, meflokiini is usually administered orally.

Common side effects of meflokiini can include gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, headache, and vivid dreams. More serious, though less common, side effects may involve neuropsychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, depression, confusion, and, in rare cases, hallucinations or psychosis. Due to these potential adverse effects, meflokiini may not be suitable for everyone, and a healthcare professional should be consulted to determine if it is the appropriate choice for malaria prophylaxis or treatment. Its use is contraindicated in individuals with a history of certain psychiatric disorders or seizures.