Planning a trip to a malaria-risk destination is an exciting prospect, but making sure you are properly protected before you travel is just as important as booking your flights. Malarone is one of the most commonly prescribed antimalarial tablets in the UK, and for good reason. It is highly effective, well-tolerated by most people, and requires a shorter course than some other antimalarial options.
Whether you are heading to sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, or Central America, getting the right advice before you go can make a significant difference to your health and peace of mind. You can book a travel health consultation at Vivo Pharmacy & Health Clinic in Bristol to find out whether Malarone is the right choice for your trip, or contact our team with any questions before you travel.
What Is Malarone?
Malarone is a prescription-only antimalarial medication containing two active ingredients: atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride. These two medicines work together to target the malaria parasite at different stages of its lifecycle, making the combination both highly effective at preventing infection and harder for the parasite to develop resistance against.
It is available in two strengths. The standard adult tablet contains 250mg of atovaquone and 100mg of proguanil. A paediatric version with lower doses is also available for children, though dosing is based on body weight and should always be confirmed by a healthcare professional.
According to NHS guidance on malaria prevention, no antimalarial medication offers 100% protection, which is why it should always be used alongside other preventative measures such as insect repellent, appropriate clothing, and mosquito nets where relevant.
How Does Malarone Work?
Atovaquone and proguanil work by interfering with the ability of the malaria parasite to produce energy and replicate within the body. Atovaquone disrupts the parasite’s mitochondrial function, while proguanil inhibits an enzyme essential to its replication. Together, they attack the parasite at both the liver stage (before it enters the bloodstream) and the blood stage, offering a dual layer of protection.
This dual action is one of the reasons Malarone is particularly effective and also why resistance is less commonly reported compared to some older antimalarial medications.
Who Is Malarone Suitable For?
Malarone is suitable for most healthy adults and children weighing over 11kg. However, it may not be appropriate for everyone.
- ➢ It is not recommended for people with severe kidney impairment
- ➢ It should be used with caution during pregnancy and is generally not recommended, particularly in the first trimester
- ➢ It is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers whose infants weigh less than 11kg
- ➢ Some medications can interact with Malarone, including rifampicin, rifabutin, and certain antiretroviral drugs
- ➢ A full medication and health history review is always required before it is prescribed
A travel health consultation ensures your individual circumstances are properly assessed before any antimalarial is recommended.
How to Take Malarone
Taking Malarone correctly is essential to ensure it works effectively. The dosing schedule is one of the more convenient aspects of this medication compared to alternatives such as mefloquine.
| Who | When to Start | During Travel | After Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | 1–2 days before entering a malaria-risk area | One tablet daily, taken with food or a milky drink | Continue for 7 days after leaving the risk area |
| Children | 1–2 days before entering a malaria-risk area | Daily dose based on body weight, taken with food | Continue for 7 days after leaving the risk area |
It is important to take Malarone at the same time each day and always with food or a milky drink. Taking it on an empty stomach significantly reduces absorption and can also cause nausea. If you vomit within one hour of taking your tablet, take a replacement dose as soon as possible and then continue your normal schedule the following day.
Common Side Effects of Malarone
Malarone is generally well tolerated, particularly when taken with food. The most commonly reported side effects are mild and digestive in nature.
Click on each side effect below to learn more
Serious side effects are uncommon. However, if you develop a skin rash, mouth ulcers, or any sign of an allergic reaction, stop taking Malarone and seek medical advice promptly.
Malarone Compared to Other Antimalarials
There are several antimalarial options available, and the right choice depends on your destination, trip duration, health history, and personal preferences. Malarone is particularly well-suited to shorter trips due to its brief post-travel course of just seven days, whereas doxycycline and mefloquine require four weeks after return.
Key advantages of Malarone include its favourable side effect profile, the absence of the neuropsychiatric effects associated with mefloquine, and the convenience of starting just one to two days before travel. The main consideration is cost, as it tends to be more expensive than doxycycline for longer trips.
Leaving soon? Check out our guide on how you can get last-minute travel vaccinations at our clinic before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription for Malarone?
Yes. Malarone is a prescription-only medication in the UK. It must be prescribed following a travel health consultation where your destination, itinerary, and health history are assessed. Our team in Bristol can provide this as part of a private travel health appointment.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Malarone?
There is no direct contraindication between Malarone and alcohol, but alcohol can worsen nausea and reduce your ability to absorb the medication effectively if taken together. It is sensible to drink in moderation during your course.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue your regular daily schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one. Consistency is important for Malarone to remain effective.
Is Malarone safe for long trips?
Malarone is generally recommended for trips up to 28 weeks. For longer travel, a travel health professional should assess the most appropriate option for your circumstances.
Can I get Malarone on the NHS?
Malarone is not routinely available on the NHS for malaria prevention and is typically prescribed privately. The cost varies depending on the length of your trip and the number of tablets required. Our team can advise on pricing during your travel health consultation in Bristol.
Get Expert Travel Health Advice in Bristol Before You Go
Malarone is a highly effective and convenient antimalarial option for many travellers, but the right choice always depends on your personal circumstances and destination. Getting proper advice before you travel is the best way to ensure you are protected and that your medication suits your health profile and itinerary.
Our team at Vivo Pharmacy & Health Clinic provides comprehensive travel health consultations, including antimalarial prescribing, vaccination advice, and destination-specific health guidance. Book your travel health appointment today or contact our Bristol team to find out more.
