Key takeaways
Quinine (Qualaquin) and mefloquine are both antimalarial medications used to treat malaria, but they have some key differences. Quinine (Qualaquin) is specifically FDA-approved for treating uncomplicated malaria caused by *Plasmodium falciparum* in people aged 16 and older, while mefloquine is used for both the treatment and prevention of malaria caused by *Plasmodium falciparum* and *Plasmodium vivax* in adults and children weighing more than 20 kgs. Quinine is taken as a capsule every 8 hours for 7 days, whereas mefloquine is taken as a single dose for treatment or once weekly for prevention. Quinine is available as a generic and is typically not a first-choice option due to its many side effects and drug interactions, including with certain antiseizure medications and antibiotics. Mefloquine, also available as a generic, is not suitable for people with a history of mood disorders or seizures and can cause mood changes and heart problems. Common side effects of quinine include headache, nausea, and dizziness, while mefloquine can cause dizziness, nausea, and mood changes. Both medications can cause serious heart-related side effects, so it's important to discuss your medical history and current medications with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
