Mefloquine: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side effects

Chemical formula:

• C17H16F6N2O

Structure of Mefloquine

Mechanism of action:

• Mefloquine is believed to inhibit heme detoxification within the Plasmodium food vacuole, similar to other quinoline-based antimalarials.

• However, the exact mechanism of action is not well understood.

Uses:

• Mefloquine is used for the prevention and treatment of malaria, particularly in cases of chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum.

• It is often used for travelers visiting malaria-endemic areas.

Side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, and vivid dreams.

• Serious side effects include neuropsychiatric symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and seizures), QT interval prolongation, and severe skin reactions.

• Due to its potential for neuropsychiatric side effects, mefloquine is generally not recommended for individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders or seizures.