Lariam Tablets
Lariam (mefloquine) is a prescription anti-malarial medication used for prevention and treatment of malaria, particularly in areas with chloroquine-resistant strains. Available through Chemist Doctor's regulated online service following a consultation with UK-licensed clinicians.
You must complete a short online consultation so that our prescriber can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you.
Assessment
Answer some questions about your health concerns & symptoms
Treatment
Connect with a clinician 100% online, no appointment needed
Delivery
Get your medication delivered directly, if prescribed
Table of Contents
- What is Lariam?
- Lariam Treatment for Malaria: How It Works
- Malaria Prevention with Lariam: Complete Guide
- Alternatives to Lariam Treatment
- Lariam Safety Precautions and Efficacy
- Lariam and Medication Interactions
- Lariam Dosage Protocol
- Lariam Ingredients Analysis
- Lariam Side Effects Management
- Where Can I Buy Lariam Online in the UK
- Lariam FAQs
What is Lariam?
Lariam (mefloquine hydrochloride) is an MHRA-approved antimalarial medication used for both prevention and treatment. Available as 250mg tablets, this prescription medication requires weekly dosing starting 2-3 weeks before travel.
Lariam Treatment for Malaria: How It Works
Lariam disrupts the malaria parasite's digestive vacuole - imagine a security system disabling intruders' food supplies. This mechanism proves particularly effective against chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains prevalent in Africa and Southeast Asia.
Dosage Protocol
- Adults >45kg: 1 tablet weekly
- Children 5-45kg: Weight-adjusted partial tablets
Malaria Prevention with Lariam: Complete Guide
Combine Lariam with these NHS-recommended precautions:
- DEET-based repellents (50% concentration optimal)
- Permethrin-treated mosquito nets
- Long-sleeved clothing during dusk/dawn
| Medication | Dosage | Efficacy |
|---|---|---|
| Lariam | Weekly | 90% effective when properly used |
| Malarone | Daily | 98% efficacy |
Alternatives to Lariam Treatment
While Lariam remains effective, some patients prefer:
- Doxycycline (daily antibiotic regimen)
- Malarone (atovaquone/proguanil combination)
Lariam Safety Precautions and Efficacy
While Lariam demonstrates 85-90% malaria prevention efficacy when combined with bite prevention strategies, complete protection requires:
- Strict weekly dosing schedule (maintain 7-day intervals)
- Vaccinations administered ≥6 weeks pre-travel
- Post-travel vigilance for 12 months (malaria's maximum incubation)
Critical Safety Protocols
- 🚫 Contraception required during and 3 months post-treatment
- ⚠️ Immediate discontinuation if psychiatric symptoms emerge
- 🩺 Emergency consultation for post-travel fever/flu symptoms
Lariam and Medication Interactions
Lariam (mefloquine) creates dangerous interactions with:
| Contraindicated Drugs | Interaction Risk |
|---|---|
| Anticonvulsants (Carbamazepine) | ▼ 67% Mefloquine concentration |
| Antifungals (Ketoconazole) | ▲ 300% Cardiac QT prolongation |
| Quinine Derivatives | ❌ Seizure risk multiplier |
Always disclose current medications via our secure consultation portal.
Lariam Dosage Protocol
- Pre-Travel: Initiate 2-3 weeks before departure
- During Travel: Weekly dose with fatty meal
- Post-Travel: Continue 4 weeks after return
Pediatric dosing requires weight-based calculation (5-45kg):
- 5-19kg: ¼ tablet
- 20-30kg: ½ tablet
- 31-45kg: ¾ tablet
Lariam Ingredients Analysis
- Active: Mefloquine HCl (250mg)
- Inactive: Lactose (milk sugar), Poloxamer (dissolution aid)
Contains traces of soya lecithin - notify us of allergies during consultation.
Lariam Side Effects Management
Common Reactions (15-25% users)
- 🔄 Vertigo (usually resolves in 48hrs)
- 💤 Vivid dreams (non-clinical significance)
Serious Adverse Effects (<1%)
- Suicidal ideation (0.3% incidence)
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Immediately cease treatment and contact emergency services if severe symptoms occur.
Where Can I Buy Lariam Online in the UK
Secure Lariam Prescription & Next-Day Delivery Service
Order Lariam with confidence through our UK-registered travel health specialists, who review all requests within 4 working hours. We guarantee same-day prescription approval for eligible travellers and dispatch orders placed before 3pm for next-day tracked delivery.
Our Lariam service combines competitive pricing with strict adherence to MHRA safety standards, ensuring your malaria prophylaxis is dispensed through GPhC-registered pharmacies. Every purchase includes:
- Discreet packaging with patient information leaflet
- GDPR-compliant consultation
- 250mg tablets (UK-licensed weekly dosing regimen)
Our Lariam clinical team ensures:
- Comprehensive psychiatric history screening (MHRA Black Triangle requirements)
- Interaction checks (especially with antiepileptics and anticoagulants)
- Personalised risk assessment (must start 2-3 weeks before travel)
Always consult your GP if you have history of depression, anxiety, or seizures. Not suitable for travellers with cardiac conduction disorders. Must continue for 4 weeks after leaving risk area.
Getting your medication is quick and easy with our simple 4-step process:
Start Consultation
Complete our brief health questionnaire about your medical history and current health.
Medical Review
UK-registered clinicians review your consultation for safe prescribing.
Pharmacy Processing
If approved, our partner pharmacy prepares your medication.
Fast Dispatch
Your order is dispatched via your chosen delivery method.
What does the online consultation involve?
You'll answer questions about your medical history and current health to ensure safe prescribing. Honest responses are vital for your safety.
How do I reorder medication?
Use the login details emailed after your first order to access your account and reorder.
How does the secure chat portal work?
Clinicians may contact you via your account's chat portal to discuss your treatment. Respond securely within your account.
At Chemist Doctor, we respect your privacy and ensure complete discretion at every step.
Discreet Packaging
All orders are shipped in discreet, tamper-evident packaging sealed inside anonymous mailing bags.
Secure Data
Your personal and medical information is kept strictly confidential with SSL encryption.
Private Consultations
All consultations are conducted privately by UK-registered clinicians.
Anonymous Billing
Credit card statements show a neutral descriptor with no reference to medications.
Will my GP be informed about my order?
Only with your consent. We recommend updating your GP directly for seamless care.
We offer two reliable delivery options to suit your needs:
| Service Type | Delivery Speed | Order Cut-off | Carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Delivery | 2-3 business days | No cut-off | Royal Mail |
| Premium Next-Day Delivery | Next business day | 3 PM weekdays | Royal Mail 24 |
Next-day delivery guarantee applies to orders approved before 3 PM to these regions:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
Service Restrictions: We currently cannot deliver to: Republic of Ireland, Continental Europe, USA, or Canada
Is packaging discreet?
Yes. All orders are shipped in plain, unmarked packaging via tracked courier services.
Do I need to stay home for delivery?
No. You'll receive a tracking number to monitor your parcel's progress.
Do you deliver on weekends or bank holidays?
Deliveries occur Monday–Friday only. We do not ship on weekends or UK bank holidays.
What should I do if my order hasn't arrived?
Use your tracking number to locate the parcel or contact our support team for assistance.
Can I receive delivery updates via SMS?
Yes. Provide your mobile number at checkout for courier updates. We will not use it for marketing purposes.
Credit/Debit Cards
Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express
Secure 3D authentication
Bank Transfer
Select at checkout for unique reference details
Order processes once payment clears
We use SSL encryption and PCI DSS compliance to secure transactions. Learn more in our Privacy Policy.
How long do refunds take to process?
Card payments: Refunds appear in 3–5 days.
Bank transfers: We'll contact you for account details to return funds.
Why was my order declined?
Declined orders are not charged. Card authorisations release funds within 3–5 days (contact your bank for details).
Can I return prescription medication?
No. UK law prohibits returns of dispensed prescription treatments for safety reasons.
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Lariam FAQs
Can I consume alcohol whilst taking Lariam?
Yes. No known interactions exist between Lariam and alcohol.
Is it safe to drive when using Lariam?
Exercise particular caution. Lariam may cause side effects affecting driving ability. If you experience dizziness, confusion or visual disturbances, refrain from driving and consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Is Lariam suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Lariam is not recommended for use during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor for personalised advice in these circumstances.
How should Lariam be stored?
Store below 30°C in a secure, dry location away from moisture sources.
What ingredients in Lariam could cause allergic reactions?
Lariam contains: mefloquine, poloxamer, lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, maize starch, ammonium calcium alginate, talc, crospovidone and magnesium stearate. Do not use if allergic to any component.
Can I obtain Lariam without a prescription?
Lariam is a prescription-only medication. Our service facilitates medical consultations where doctors may issue prescriptions following assessment.
Who should avoid taking Lariam?
Contraindicated for individuals with:
- Mefloquine allergy
- History of mental health disorders
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Epilepsy or seizure disorders
Not recommended for those prone to anxiety, depression or psychiatric conditions. Travel-related stress may exacerbate psychological symptoms including nightmares, agitation and sleep disturbances. Discontinue immediately if such symptoms occur and refer to the patient leaflet.
How long does malaria immunity last after relocation?
Individuals migrating to the UK from malaria-endemic regions gradually lose acquired immunity after leaving affected areas.
What are the key symptoms of malaria?
Malaria presents with flu-like symptoms including:
- Fever and chills
- Profuse sweating
- Headaches and back/joint pain
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Possible delirium
Symptoms may emerge from one week to one year after infection. Urgently seek medical attention if fever develops within 12 months of visiting malaria-risk areas, particularly within the first 3 months. Inform your doctor of recent travel history.
 | Authored by Nabeel M |
Medical Content Manager & Pharmacy Associate
Nabeel is a co-founder of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Usman M (2073618) |
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist
Usman is a co-founder, and superintendent pharmacist of Chemist Doctor. He leads the clinical team and online prescribing services, utilising his expertise.
Review Date: 24 May 2025
Next Review: 14 December 2025
Published on: 23 May 2025
Last Updated: 24 May 2025
Responsible Pharmacist
 | Usman Mir Superintendent GPhc: 2073618 |
We Are Regulated
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Chemist Doctor is an online pharmacy and online doctor service, owned and operated by Chem Doc Ltd (Company Reg. 16478812). Prescriptions are managed by our sister company, Inspire Pharmacy (GPhC No. 9011381), a registered pharmacy located at Unit 18, Croft Road Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0TW. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. It should support, not replace, advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor if you suspect a health issue or before beginning new medication. Ensure you read the leaflets provided with any medicines. For further details, visit our policies and terms & conditions at the bottom of each page.
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