The Basics
What Causes Malaria?
Malaria is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by a parasite transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Because it is a parasite and not a virus or bacteria, protection relies on a combination of anti-malarial medication and rigorous bite prevention. Atovaquone/Proguanil is one of the most commonly prescribed and effective medications for travellers visiting high-risk regions.
Vaccination Overview
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
| Feature | Details |
| How to take | One tablet daily, taken at the same time each day. |
| Start timing | Begin taking the tablets 1 to 2 days before entering the malaria-risk area. |
| During travel | Take one tablet every day while you are in the risk area. |
| Post-travel | You must continue taking the tablets for 7 days after leaving the risk area. |
| How to swallow | Take with food or a milky drink to maximise absorption and reduce stomach upset. |
| Suitability | Available in adult doses and paediatric (child) doses based on weight. |
The "ABCD" of Malaria Prevention
Four Steps to Staying Safe
To stay safe in malaria-risk zones, always remember the ABCD guide:
A – Awareness of Risk: Confirm if your destination requires anti-malarial medication.
B – Bite Prevention: Use DEET-based insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under a mosquito net.
C – Chemoprophylaxis: Take your Atovaquone/Proguanil tablets exactly as directed.
D – Diagnosis: Seek immediate medical help if you develop a fever during or up to a year after your trip.
Safety & Side Effects
What to Expect
Atovaquone/Proguanil is generally well-tolerated and has fewer side effects than many older anti-malarial drugs. However, some people may experience:
Digestive Issues: Mild stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhoea (usually reduced by taking the tablet with food).
General: Occasional headaches or dizziness.
Vivid Dreams: Some users report unusual or vivid dreams while taking the medication.
Important: If you vomit within one hour of taking your dose, you should take another tablet immediately.
Recognising Symptoms
Symptoms of Malaria
Symptoms usually appear within 7 to 15 days but can take longer. A fever after traveling to a malaria-risk area is a medical emergency.
High Fever: Often accompanied by shivering, chills, and sweating.
Flu-like Symptoms: Severe headache, muscle aches, and extreme fatigue.
Digestive Distress: Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Serious Signs: Confusion, seizures, or yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice).
Additional Precautions
Completing the Course
Don’t Stop Early: The most critical part of taking Atovaquone/Proguanil is the 7-day post-travel course. This ensures that any parasites that may have entered your system during the final days of your trip are completely eliminated.
Evening Vigilance: The mosquitoes that carry malaria are most active between dusk and dawn. Ensure you apply repellent and use protective nets during these hours.
Consultation: Always speak with a healthcare professional to ensure this medication is suitable for your specific medical history and destination.
FAQ
Can I take Atovaquone/Proguanil if I am pregnant?
It is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless no other options are available. Please discuss your travel plans with your clinician for a specialised risk assessment.
Is "Malarone" the same as Atovaquone/Proguanil?
Yes. Malarone is the original brand name. Atovaquone/Proguanil is the generic version, which contains the exact same active ingredients and offers the same level of protection.
Travelling with Children
Protecting Your Family: Paediatric Atovaquone/Proguanil
Children are at a higher risk of developing severe malaria, so ensuring they have the correct protection is vital. Atovaquone/Proguanil is available in a specific paediatric strength tablet for children weighing between 11kg and 40kg.
How the Dose is Calculated:
The dosage is determined strictly by the child’s body weight rather than their age. As an independent prescribing pharmacist, I will calculate the exact number of tablets required for your child during your consultation.
| Child's Weight | Daily Dosage (Paediatric Tablets) |
| 11–20 kg | 1 paediatric tablet daily |
| 21–30 kg | 2 paediatric tablets daily (as a single dose) |
| 31–40 kg | 3 paediatric tablets daily (as a single dose) |
| Over 40 kg | 1 adult strength tablet daily |
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While we strive to provide accurate health information, it is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or vaccination schedule. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website.