Malaria and Larium

[Will__]

Just got back from a trip to Africa. Been taking 250mg Lariam every 7 days, starting 2 weeks before we left, and twice while we were there.

It's seriously unpleasant stuff, although I do thoroughly understand the reasons why it's worth putting up with some fairly horrible side-effects. However, neither of us think we were bitten; never even saw or heard a mozzy - so we're wondering if we should take the next 3 pills for the next 3 weeks to complete the course. Any thoughts? If I can I'd like to not have insomnia, temazipan-like spaciness and generally feeling weird.

Ta.

[Hippy]

The official Lariam site here makes interesting reading and gives a really frightening view on the cycle of the killer disease, Malaria. The notes say that you should complete the dose after the visit, unless you exhibit certain severe contra-indications. You might think that the mighty drug company "would say that, wouldn't they?" to get you to buy the drug, but there is no vested interest in telling you to continue with the treatment longer than necessary as you already have the drug, and it is not as if you have to go out buy lots more. They are probably telling you the most effective way of using their medication.

Not all people react to mosquito bites (I don't) so it is hard to say whether or not you have been bitten. On balance I should continue the dose indicated. A bit of light headedness or nausea is preferable to suffering Malaria or even being dead.

[AllYourBase]

Due to the life cycle of the malaria parasite, it is VITAL that you follow the course as directed. No antimalarial drug give you a magic shield against the disease, it merely gives you increased protection, which is why nets, repellent etc must ALWAYS be used, even when takng antimalarials. Lariam is nasty stuff indeed, but you would not have been prescribed it were you not able to take it and, trust me, malaria is worse...

[Will__]

ok thanks guys we will continue the course. Can I take less though? I normally take a whole pill - would it be really wrong to change that to 3/4 ? My girlfriend was prescribed 3/4 but on the advice of a friend only takes 1/2.

[Stefanus]

This not realy an answer but here goes. All medication should be completed ie Antibotics, Prophylaxsis etc, unless your Dctor prescribes otherwise. I left Africa 4yrs ago and now am told that I must take 1) Malalone, daily 2) Lariam, weekly. I am returning to Africa for a few months shortly and am told my initial resistance to Malaria is now non existent. I will plug for Lriam but am informed that a GP`s prescription is required. I would apprecite your comments and any side effects which could develop Sabona Stefanus