Indications 

Malarone is a prescribed medication for the prevention and treatment of malaria, a disease transmitted through mosquito bites, particularly in regions where malaria is prevalent. 

Malarone combines two active ingredients, atovaquone, and proguanil, both classified as antimalarial drugs. These medications impede the growth of parasites residing in body tissues, including red blood cells and the liver, resulting in their demise. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Malarone and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any inquiries or need further explanation, seek advice from your physician or pharmacist. 

The dosage of Malarone is determined by the patient’s medical condition, whether it is for prevention or treatment, and their response to the treatment. For children, weight is also considered. 

Typically, Malarone is taken once daily with food or a milky drink (such as whole milk or milkshake). If vomiting occurs within one hour after taking this medication, a repeat dose should be taken. If vomiting persists, medical advice should be sought. 

Malarone tablets should be ingested whole and not chewed to avoid the bitter taste. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablets, they can be crushed and mixed with condensed milk. Consume the entire mixture promptly and refrain from storing it for future use. 

If taking Malarone for malaria prevention: 

1. Start taking it once daily, 1 or 2 days before traveling to a malaria-prone area. 
2. Continue taking it throughout your stay in the area. 
3. Take it for 7 days after returning. 

If taking Malarone for malaria treatment: 

1. Take it once daily for 3 consecutive days. 

Complete the entire course of Malarone treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better or no longer experiencing symptoms. 

Avoid stopping or altering your dosage without your doctor’s approval, as doing so may render the prevention or treatment ineffective, increase the parasite count, make the infection more challenging to treat (resistant), or exacerbate side effects. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Malarone. Inform your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Mild stomach pain or discomfort 
• Mild diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Mild itching 
• Weakness 
• Dizziness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe or uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea 
• Fever accompanied by mouth sores 
• Speech difficulties, balance problems, or trouble walking 
• Severe skin rash 
• Nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), or purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin. 

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe side effects above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Malarone may occur. Promptly seek medical assistance if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Rash 
• Itching 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Severe dizziness 
• Itching or swelling, particularly on the face, throat, or tongue  

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Malarone. Should you experience any unlisted effects, inform your physician without delay. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Malarone, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to: 

• Atovaquone 
• Proguanil 
• Other medications 
• Any ingredients present in Malarone tablets 

To ensure Malarone is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Kidney problems 
• Liver problems 
• Mental/mood problems 
• Seizures 
• Current diarrhea 
• Current vomiting 

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you use, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, to prevent drug interaction with Malarone. 

Certain products may interact with Malarone, including: 

• Penicillamine 
• “Blood thinners” like warfarin 
• Metoclopramide 

The effectiveness of Malarone may be influenced by other medications that impact its elimination from the body. Examples of such medications include: 

• Efavirenz 
• Rifampin 
• Rifabutin 
• Tetracycline 

While Malarone reduces the likelihood of contracting malaria, it does not provide complete immunity. To protect yourself from mosquito bites in malaria-prone areas, wear appropriate clothing such as long sleeves and pants, apply mosquito repellent, and utilize bed nets. 

The initial symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, muscle pain, and headaches. If you are using Malarone for malaria prevention and experience any of these symptoms, promptly contact your doctor and inform them about your potential exposure to malaria. 

Malarone can cause dizziness, and consuming alcohol can intensify this effect. Restrict alcohol consumption and refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely. 

The potential effects of Malarone on an unborn baby are not fully understood. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while using Malarone, inform your doctor.  

Malaria poses a higher risk of fatality for pregnant women. If you are pregnant, discuss the risks associated with traveling to regions where malaria is prevalent with your doctor. 

The transfer of atovaquone into breast milk is uncertain. However, proguanil does pass into breast milk, and its effects on nursing infants are unknown. Before nursing an infant while taking this medication, consult your doctor.