Lariam (Mefloquine) for Children: What Parents Need to Know

Malaria can hit kids fast, and the right medicine can stop a serious infection before it starts. Lariam, the brand name for mefloquine, is one of the drugs doctors use to keep travelers safe. If you’re planning a trip to a malaria‑risk area with a child, you’ll want to know how to give Lariam, what to watch for, and when to call a doctor.

How to Dose Lariam for Different Ages

First, get the exact dose from your pediatrician. Dosing is based on the child’s weight, not just age. For kids who weigh under 40 kg (about 88 lb), the usual dose is 5 mg per kilogram of body weight once a week. That means a child who weighs 30 kg (66 lb) gets a 150 mg tablet each week.

Kids over 40 kg are treated like adults and take a 250 mg tablet once a week. The tablet can be swallowed whole or split with a pill cutter if a smaller dose is needed. Give the medicine with food or a snack to reduce stomach upset.

Start the medication at least two weeks before you enter the malaria zone, keep it going each week while you’re there, and continue for four weeks after you leave. Skipping a dose can leave a gap in protection, so set a reminder on your phone or use a weekly pill box.

Side Effects and When to Seek Help

Most kids tolerate Lariam well, but you might see some mild side effects. Common ones include nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, and vivid dreams. These usually fade after a few doses. If your child feels dizzy or has trouble sleeping, try giving the tablet in the evening with a light snack.

Rarely, Lariam can cause more serious reactions like anxiety, mood swings, or ringing in the ears. If your child becomes unusually irritable, complains of hearing changes, or shows signs of depression, stop the medicine and call your doctor right away. In very rare cases, severe allergic reactions (hives, swelling, trouble breathing) can happen—treat those as emergencies.

Because Lariam stays in the body for a long time, it’s important to finish the entire weekly schedule. Cutting a dose short can increase the risk of malaria and may also raise the chance of side effects when you restart.

Ask your doctor about other drugs your child may be taking. Mefloquine can interact with certain antidepressants and seizure medicines, so a quick medication check can avoid problems.

For kids with a history of seizures, psychiatric illness, or heart rhythm issues, doctors often choose a different malaria preventive drug. Always share your child’s full medical history before starting Lariam.

In short, Lariam is a solid option for malaria prevention when used correctly. Get the right weight‑based dose, keep a weekly routine, watch for any side effects, and stay in touch with your pediatrician. With those steps, you can travel confidently knowing your child is protected against one of the world’s toughest diseases.