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

sachinkumar244
1 min read

Chemical formula:

  • C17H16F6N2O

Structure of Mefloquine
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.





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