Mefloquine Pregnancy and Breast Feeding Warnings
Mefloquine is also known as: Lariam
Overview
Do not become pregnant while you are taking Mefloquine . If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Mefloquine while you are pregnant. Mefloquine is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Mefloquine .
Mefloquine Pregnancy Warnings
Mefloquine has been assigned to pregnancy category C by the FDA. Animal studies have revealed evidence of embryotoxicity and teratogenicity. Published clinical reports and small studies have not revealed embryotoxicity or teratogenicity. Some experts recommend that mefloquine be avoided during pregnancy, especially the first trimester. Mefloquine should only be given during pregnancy when benefit outweighs risk. Malaria in pregnant women may be more severe than in nonpregnant women and has resulted in abortion, stillbirth, and prematurity. Women of childbearing age who are traveling to endemic malarious areas should be warned against becoming pregnant and to use effective contraception during mefloquine prophylaxis and for up to 3 months afterwards. However, unplanned pregnancy during mefloquine use is not an indication for terminating the pregnancy.
The Centers for Disease Control consider chloroquine to be the drug of choice for malaria prophylaxis during pregnancy and mefloquine as an agent to be reserved for use during the second and/or third trimester only in chloroquine-resistant areas. Pregnant patients have lower peak levels and a larger volume of distribution. Doses may need to be increased.
Mefloquine Lactation Warnings
Mefloquine is excreted into human milk. Three to four percent of a dose are excreted into milk. The manufacturer recommends that due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
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