Anti-Malarials & Psychosis

[Ed P]

The tragic death of Alana Cutland who leapt from a plane in Madagascar after suffering a psychotic incident remains a mystery. Madagascar has mosquitoes carrying cerebral malaria (this nearly always kills) and an anti-malarial drug is pretty much mandatory. At the inquest the police Colonel stated that he had never heard of anti-malarials causing psychosis (probably the same as most UK GPs).

Unfortunately my wife and I can both attest that such drugs do carry a risk of psychosis (Larium in our case). We were fortunate in being able to terminate the drug after just a few weeks but mood swings and trivial arguments nearly terminated our marriage.

Unlike the US this drug is still on the UK approved list, and alternates also have substantial risk factors. If you should ever holiday in East Africa or South East Asia you will be advised to use a suitable anti-malarial – please do so, BUT do research the risks and alternative prophylactics!

[PlaneMan]

I saw something along those lines a few months ago, really can’t remember where though.

It’s possible it was here but I can’t find anything there now. Could have been in my news feed.

[Richard]

That does sound familiar from a while past. I think that the army ran into problems with something like that, perhaps 3 or 4 might be more years back. Even the name sounds ‘sort of’ familiar, but being the case and sounding possible are two different things.

I agree, research, research and research again before treading into dangerous waters.

It is a tragedy for her, her family and those affected by the death.

[Author]

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