Lariam: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you’re planning a trip to a region where malaria is common, Lariam, a prescription antimalarial drug containing mefloquine. Also known as mefloquine, it’s one of the oldest and most debated pills used to prevent malaria infection. Unlike daily pills like doxycycline, Lariam is taken once a week, which makes it convenient—but not for everyone. It’s not just about stopping a parasite; it’s about balancing effectiveness with your body’s tolerance.

Lariam works by interfering with the malaria parasite’s ability to break down hemoglobin in red blood cells. That’s how it stops the infection before it spreads. But here’s the catch: while it’s effective against certain strains of malaria, especially in parts of Africa and Southeast Asia, it’s also linked to serious side effects. Some people report vivid dreams, anxiety, dizziness, or even depression. The FDA has warned about neurological risks, and many doctors now avoid prescribing it unless other options won’t work. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’ve got a history of mental health issues, seizures, or heart problems, Lariam might be off the table.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of drug facts. It’s a collection of real, practical comparisons and warnings from people who’ve been there. You’ll see how Lariam stacks up against other antimalarials like doxycycline and atovaquone-proguanil. You’ll learn who should skip it entirely, what symptoms to watch for, and how to spot if it’s doing more harm than good. There’s also insight into how travel clinics decide which drug to recommend—and why some patients end up switching mid-trip. This isn’t about marketing. It’s about knowing what your body can handle before you land in a high-risk zone.

There’s no magic pill for malaria prevention. But with the right info, you can make a choice that keeps you safe without risking your mental or physical health. The posts below give you the clear, no-fluff breakdowns you need to ask the right questions—before you buy a ticket, before you pack your bags, before you start taking anything.