Mefloquine, commonly known by its brand name Lariam, is an antimalarial drug that has been used by the U.S. military since 1989. It was frequently prescribed to service members deployed in regions like Africa and the Middle East to help prevent malaria. However, over time, significant concerns have arisen regarding the drug’s severe side effects, leading to its classification as a drug of “last resort” by the military in 2013.
The Symptoms of Mefloquine Toxicity
The FDA began issuing warnings about severe neuropsychiatric side effects and toxicity symptoms in 2002, and by 2013, the drug was largely phased out of regular use in the military.
The exact mechanism by which mefloquine causes these symptoms is not fully understood, but it is believed to interfere with neurons in parts of the brain related to learning, memory, emotions and stress responses.
Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Psychotic behavior
- Violent and suicidal behavior
Neurological Symptoms
- Peripheral neuropathy/polyneuropathy
- Dysesthesias (unpleasant sensation of touch)
- Paresthesias (pins and needles)
- Tremor
- Ataxia (loss of control of movement)
- Vertigo (dizziness)
- Visual difficulties
A key indicator of mefloquine toxicity is also the development of PTSD-like symptoms, before you were exposed to any traumatic events. Look for neuropsychiatric symptoms combined with vestibular symptoms (e.g. tinnitus, dizziness).
The Connection of Mefloquine and Parkinson’s Disease
Recent studies have explored a potential link between mefloquine use and the development of Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and coordination.
If you are a veteran who has been experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s and have a history of mefloquine use, it’s important to discuss it with your healthcare provider, as it may be relevant to a current or future VA disability claim.
VA Disability Ratings for Mefloquine Toxicity
Veterans pursuing VA disability benefits for conditions related to Mefloquine often face significant hurdles. One of the main challenges is that the VA does not currently recognize presumptive service connection for conditions associated with Mefloquine use.
This means when filing a VA disability claim, veterans are advised not to claim Mefloquine toxicity directly as the source of their disability. Instead, they should focus on the specific medical or psychological conditions that have occurred as a result of Mefloquine use.
Steps to Apply for VA Disability Benefits
- Document Your Symptoms: Keep detailed records of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life.
- Review Medical Records: Look for any mention of Mefloquine, Lariam, mef or MQ in your service medical records.
- Seek Medical Opinions: An independent medical opinion can be important in linking your symptoms to Mefloquine toxicity.
Successful Mefloquine Toxicity Related Claim
One notable VA disability case involved a veteran who experienced severe neuropsychiatric symptoms after taking mefloquine. The veteran’s symptoms included:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Violent behaviors
These began shortly after starting the medication and persisted for years after. With the help of an independent medical opinion and documentation of symptoms, the veteran was able to secure a favorable decision from the VA, recognizing the link between mefloquine and their condition.
Other Antimalarial Drugs to Consider
If you served before the 1989 or did not take mefloquine, your symptoms may still be related to other antimalarial drugs like Pentaquine, Iso Pentaquine, Primaquine, Pamaquine or Tafenoquine. These drugs, derived from quinine, can also cause similar neuropsychiatric and vestibular symptoms.
Mefloquine toxicity is a serious issue affecting many veterans. Understanding the symptoms and their potential long-term effects is important when pursuing a related VA disability claim. If you believe your health issues are related to mefloquine or other antimalarial drugs, gather all available medical records and documentation you may have, seek a medical opinion and consider filing a claim.
Your health and well-being are important and you deserve to receive the benefits you’ve earned through your service.
How to Claim and Win Disability Benefits
To learn more about filing (and winning!) a VA claim, check out our FREE ebook The Road to VA Compensation Benefits.
Content Reviewed by
Attorney Matthew Hill
Attorney Matthew Hill, licensed in Florida and Washington D.C., a dedicated advocate for disabled veterans with over two decades of experience, reviewed the information in this post.
