Ban the antimalarial drug Mefloquine (Lariam)

Mefloquine is used as a protection against the Malaria virus, and is taken as a once weekly tablet. 

However, it has drastic side effects in many users. Some are psychological, including problems sleeping, cases of worsening depression, and even suicide. Other side effects are physical, and can range anywhere from heart palpitations and chest pain to vertigo and uncomfortable tingling throughout the body. One tablet can remain in your body for up to several months. The U.S. Army has drastically reduced its usage due to its severe side effects. Yet it is still being prescribed to United States civilians.

I experienced Mefloquine's effects firsthand on a trip to Ecuador beginning six weeks ago.  I was prescribed the drug without ANY warning from my doctor and within several days of taking the pill, I went to the ER due to a very rapid and irregular heartbeat. I immediately discontinued the medication. 

My symptoms continued for weeks, including perceptual issues and vivid dreams. My heart palpitations continued to get worse again before I returned to the United States, with strange hot flashes and tingling feelings racing through my body, along with dizziness and a loss of balance. I would visit the Emergency Room twice more after my return to the U.S., with doctors telling me all I could do is let the drug leave my body naturally, which may still be another week or two.

I hope that other people who have taken this drug will understand my concerns and will help ensure that no one has to go through the experiences I went through. Also, this should be a warning to those traveling abroad to NOT take this medication for their own safety and well-being.