Mefloquine Toxicity – Could You Be Affected?
April 04, 2021
Mefloquine is an antimalarial drug heavily prescribed by the military for troops deployed in areas where malaria is common. It is now associated with serious and lasting side effects and has since been largely discontinued for use by the military.
Mefloquine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1989. By 1992 when U.S. troops were stationed in Somalia, where malaria is a threat, the drug was given regularly. It was also used in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In 2009 the Pentagon officially listed Mefloquine as a last choice treatment option for individuals who could not use other anti-malaria drugs like doxycycline. Then, in 2013, the FDA issued a black box warning on Mefloquine due to the occurrence of neurological and psychiatric side effects in some patients even after Mefloquine use ended.
Some of the neurological side effects of Mefloquine include:
- Seizures
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Tremors
- Ataxia (loss of control of movement)
- Vertigo
- Tinnitus
Some of the psychological side effects of Mefloquine include:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Paranoia
- Persecutory delusions
- Dissociative psychosis
- Memory problems
- Violent behavior
- Suicidal ideation and behavior
Side effects caused by Mefloquine toxicity mimic those of PTSD and other conditions frequently suffered by veterans who served in areas like Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan. It can be hard to differentiate between PTSD and Mefloquine toxicity.
Getting VA disability benefits for conditions caused by Mefloquine can be difficult but not impossible. There is no presumptive service connection for Mefloquine toxicity, but with sufficient medical evidence, it can be shown that current symptoms were more than likely caused or worsened by taking this drug while stationed overseas.
Because Mefloquine was given to troops so regularly, often there is no record of it being prescribed. This has caused disability claims for Mefloquine toxicity to be denied by the VA. However, lay reports of the drug being administered, dosage schedules and other evidence from the time can support a claim. Ultimately, the VA decides these claims on a case-by-case basis.
If you suspect that you have suffered from the effects of Mefloquine toxicity or have been denied by the VA previously, contact Legal Help for Veterans. We can help you get the benefits you deserve.