Doxycycline vs Mefloquine: A Practical Guide for Travelers

If you’re heading to a malaria‑risk region, you’ll probably hear two names over and over: doxycycline and mefloquine. Both are approved to stop malaria, but they’re not the same pill. This guide breaks down the basics so you can pick the right one for your trip without getting lost in medical jargon.

How the drugs work and when to take them

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that stops the malaria parasite from growing inside your blood cells. You start the dose one‑day before you arrive, keep taking it every day while you’re there, and continue for four days after you leave. That schedule means you need a daily reminder, but the drug is easy to find and cheap in most countries.

Mefloquine is a synthetic antimalarial that stays in your system longer. You take it once a week, beginning one week before travel, keep the weekly dose during your stay, and finish the last dose four weeks after you return. Because the timing is spread out, you don’t have to remember a pill every day, but you do need to start early.

Common side effects and who should avoid them

Doxycycline can cause stomach upset, sun sensitivity, and yeast infections in women. If you’re prone to acid reflux, take it with food or a glass of milk. A simple tip: pack a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, because the sun‑burn risk is real.

Mefloquine is notorious for mood changes, vivid dreams, and sometimes anxiety. People with a history of depression, anxiety, or seizures should steer clear of it. If you notice strange thoughts or sleep problems, stop the drug and talk to a doctor right away.

Both drugs can affect liver function, so if you have liver disease, check with a healthcare professional before starting either medication.

Cost, availability, and convenience

In most places, doxycycline is the cheaper option. A typical 30‑day supply costs less than half of a comparable mefloquine regimen. Doxycycline is also widely stocked in pharmacies worldwide, which makes it a safe bet if you need a refill on the road.

Mefloquine tends to be pricier and sometimes harder to find, especially in low‑resource settings. However, the once‑a‑week dosing can be a lifesaver for travelers who hate daily pills or have busy schedules.

Insurance coverage varies, so call your provider to see which drug is listed on your plan. Some travel clinics offer both drugs at a discounted rate.

Bottom line: Which one fits your trip?

If you prefer a low‑cost, daily routine and can handle mild stomach upset, doxycycline is a solid choice. It works well for short trips and for travelers who need a reliable, inexpensive option.

If you dread taking pills every day, have a schedule that makes weekly dosing easier, and have no history of mental health issues, mefloquine might be the better fit—just be ready for the possible mood side effects.

Always talk to a travel health specialist before you pack your meds. They can tailor the advice to your destination, medical history, and travel length. With the right drug in your bag, you’ll stay healthier and enjoy your adventure without worrying about malaria.