Mefloquine
Mefloquine is an antimalarial medication used for both the prevention and treatment of malaria, particularly in regions where chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum is endemic. It belongs to the ATC classification P01 (Antiprotozoals) and is often prescribed as a prophylactic for travelers to high-risk areas.
Mefloquine is an antimalarial drug used to prevent and treat malaria, particularly chloroquine-resistant strains.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01BC02
- RxNorm
- 6694
- Generic
- Mefloquine
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention and treatment of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and other Plasmodium species, especially in chloroquine-resistant regions. Commonly used for malaria prophylaxis in travelers to endemic areas.
Exact mechanism not fully specified; however, mefloquine is believed to work by accumulating in infected red blood cells and interfering with parasite growth, likely through inhibition of heme polymerization or other essential parasitic pathways.
May cause serious neuropsychiatric side effects including anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and psychosis. Contraindicated in patients with history of psychiatric disorders or seizures. Not recommended during first trimester of pregnancy. Resistance has been reported in some regions.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy