Paranoid psychosis related to mefloquine antimalarial prophylaxis

P N G Med J. 2002 Sep-Dec;45(3-4):219-21.

Abstract

Mefloquine is an important antimalarial drug for treatment and prophylaxis of chloroquine-resistant malaria. Its use has been associated with neuropsychiatric side-effects. We report a case of paranoid psychosis associated with mefloquine occurring in a remote part of Papua New Guinea. Adverse reactions and contraindications are discussed. This case underlines the importance of awareness of neuropsychiatric side-effects with mefloquine use and of taking a careful psychiatric history before prescribing mefloquine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antimalarials / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mefloquine / adverse effects*
  • Paranoid Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Psychoses, Substance-Induced / etiology*

Substances

  • Antimalarials
  • Mefloquine