Our friend the Malaria Pill

Mefloquine, also known as Lariam, is the malaria pill we were prescribed for our trip to Africa. Taken once a week, it warns that if children vomit within 30 minutes of taking the pill they need to take another.

Here are some side effects from a handy website:

upset stomach
vomiting
diarrhea
stomach pain
loss of appetite
muscle pain
dizziness
loss of balance
ringing in ears
headache
sleepiness
difficulty falling or staying asleep
unusual dreams

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

tingling in your fingers or toes
difficulty walking
seizures
shaking of arms or legs that you cannot control
nervousness or extreme worry
depression
changes in mood
panic attack
forgetfulness
confusion
hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
violent behavior
losing touch with reality
feeling that others want to harm you
thoughts of hurting or killing yourself
rash
Mefloquine may cause other side effects. You may continue to experience side effects for some time after you take your last dose. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

In other words, it will drive you crazy. But of course, the question is... what happens if you're already gone?