About Malarone Tablets

Medication Name Malarone Tablets
Type and Form of Medicine Oral Tablets
What it Does Prevents and treats malaria
Active Ingredients Atovaquone and Proguanil Hydrochloride
Strength 250mg/100mg
Size 12 tablets, 24 tablets, 36 tablets, 48 tablets
Patient Information Leaflet Link

What are Malarone Tablets?

Malarone Tablets are a combination medication used to prevent and treat malaria. They contain two active ingredients, atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride, which work together to kill the parasites that cause malaria. These tablets are taken orally and are available in different pack sizes to suit various treatment durations.

What are Malarone Tablets used for?

Malarone Tablets are primarily used to prevent and treat malaria, a serious disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Malaria can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, and flu-like illness. In addition to malaria, Malarone Tablets may also be prescribed for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How do Malarone Tablets work?

Malarone Tablets work by interfering with the life cycle of the malaria parasite. Atovaquone inhibits the parasite’s mitochondrial electron transport, while proguanil hydrochloride inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme involved in DNA synthesis. Together, these actions prevent the parasite from reproducing and spreading within the body, effectively treating and preventing malaria.

Who are Malarone Tablets suitable for?

Malarone Tablets are suitable for adults and children weighing at least 11 kg who need to prevent or treat malaria. However, they may not be suitable for everyone. People with severe kidney problems, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those allergic to atovaquone or proguanil hydrochloride should not take Malarone Tablets. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medication.

How to use/take Malarone Tablets

  • Take Malarone Tablets with food or a milky drink to improve absorption.
  • Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it.
  • If you vomit within one hour of taking the tablet, take another dose.
  • Continue taking the tablets for the full prescribed duration, even if you feel better.

Take Malarone Tablets once daily at the same time each day.

For malaria prevention, start taking Malarone Tablets 1-2 days before entering a malaria-endemic area, continue during your stay, and for 7 days after leaving. For treatment, follow your doctor’s instructions on the duration of use.

Malarone Tablets Side Effects

Like all medications, Malarone Tablets can cause side effects. Below are some common, uncommon, and serious side effects.

Common Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhoea

Uncommon Side Effects

  • Skin rash
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Insomnia
  • Fever

Serious Side Effects

  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  • Severe skin reactions
  • Severe liver problems

For a full list of side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

Malarone Tablets Ingredients

Active Ingredients: Atovaquone and Proguanil Hydrochloride
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, povidone, sodium starch glycolate, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, macrogol, iron oxide red, iron oxide black.

Important Information

  • Do not take Malarone Tablets if you are allergic to atovaquone or proguanil hydrochloride.
  • Do not take Malarone Tablets if you have severe kidney problems.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Inform your doctor if you have liver problems or are taking other medications.
  • Do not stop taking Malarone Tablets without consulting your doctor.
  • Store Malarone Tablets at room temperature and keep them out of reach of children.