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Lariam (generic name: Melfoquine Hydrochloride) is a common malaria prevention and treatment drug. Lariam is given to some 400,000 American citizens and military personnel every year when they journey to regions harboring malaria-bearing mosquitoes. Side effects of Lariam , which can be severe include: panic attacks, convulsions, headaches, visual and auditory hallucinations, paranoia, psychotic episodes, suicide attempts, and even homicidal rage.

Once Hoffmann-La Roche initially began to market Lariam ( mefloquine ) in the US for malaria treatment and malaria prevention in 1989, the company agreed that serious Lariam side effects could transpire in about one case in 10,000. Nevertheless, the Swiss drug giant described "serious" as only side effects leading to long-term hospitalization or death due to taking Lariam. Since then, evidence has mounted that psychological Lariam side effects are much more frequent than Hoffmann-La Roche acknowledges.

Some additional neurological or psychological side effects including:

  • Panic Attacks
  • Psychosis
  • Hallucinations
  • Depression
  • Suicide Attempts/Suicide