THE Defence Forces continue to use a controversial anti-malaria drug despite being informed of the US military's decision to drop it over increasing concerns about its health effects.

The Irish branch of an international support group for those who suffer from side-effects linked to Lariam – a branded version of mefloquine – passed on information regarding the US army's decision to stop using it.

Last week, the Sunday Tribune revealed that plans are afoot to form an action group for members of the Defence Forces who believe their condition has been ignored.

Those who claim to have suffered side-effects cite symptoms including depression, anxiety, aggression, suicidal tendencies and paranoia.

Last year the US military changed its policy on issuing the drug to troops following ongoing concerns, opting instead for other medication.

The US army surgeon-general, Lieutenant General Eric Shoomaker, wrote in a memo that it was "critically important" that anyone given the drug – those who could not be given the preferred alternative for medical reasons – should not have mental health problems or recent history of traumatic brain injury.

"I sent [the Irish army] a lot of information when the US army stopped using Lariam, or moved it to the drug of last resort. I contacted them in February, 2009," said Andrew Bryce, administrator of the Irish branch of Lariam Action.

"I got a 'thanks for the information' and that was it. The army is still prescribing it. Their health was being put at risk by taking the drug so it was my assumption that they would pass it on to the chief doctor or whoever makes these decisions."

Bryce has suffered adverse effects since his honeymoon in 1996. While his condition has somewhat improved over the years he has, at various times, suffered extreme anxiety, insomnia, chronic fatigue, vision problems, nausea, extreme nightmares, palpitations and low blood pressure. A former computer systems expert with a masters degree from Trinity College, he has not worked since becoming ill and is unlikely to work again. He sleeps for two hours during the day to fight fatigue.

Bryce says around 100 people have been in touch with the group in Ireland but that there has been a drop-off in contact since around 2005, which he believes may be due to a reduction in the level of prescription.

Roche, the company that makes Lariam, has continued to deny it causes side-effects that can lead to suicide. It also insists the drug is important in combating malaria.