Malarone Tablets
Malarone (atovaquone/proguanil) is a prescription antimalarial medication used for prevention and treatment of malaria, particularly effective against Plasmodium falciparum. Available through Chemist Doctor's regulated online service following a consultation with UK-licensed clinicians.
You must complete a short online consultation so that our prescriber can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you.
Assessment
Answer some questions about your health concerns & symptoms
Treatment
Connect with a clinician 100% online, no appointment needed
Delivery
Get your medication delivered directly, if prescribed
Table of Contents
- What Are Malarone Tablets?
- How Malarone Works to Block Malaria Infection
- Malarone Treatment Protocol: Dosage & Administration
- Why Malarone Excels Against Resistant Strains
- Malarone vs Doxycycline: Key Differences
- Malarone Dosage Protocol: Evidence-Based Schedule
- Malarone Tablet Composition
- Safety Profile: Side Effects & Contraindications
- Critical Drug Interactions
- Malaria Prevention Protocol
- Where Can I Buy Malarone Online in the UK
- Malarone FAQs
What Are Malarone Tablets?
Malarone tablets (containing 250mg atovaquone/100mg proguanil) are prescription antimalarials used for malaria prevention in travellers. Approved by MHRA, this dual-action medication requires GP consultation prior to use.
How Malarone Works to Block Malaria Infection
Imagine malaria parasites as factories needing chemical components to replicate. Malarone's two active ingredients disrupt this process:
- Atovaquone: Blocks energy production in parasite mitochondria
- Proguanil: Inhibits folate synthesis (vital for DNA replication)
This dual mechanism makes Malarone particularly effective against P. falciparum, the most dangerous malaria strain.
Malarone Treatment Protocol: Dosage & Administration
- Start 1-2 days before entering malaria zone
- Take daily at same time with food/milk
- Continue for 7 days post-return
Important: Repeat dose if vomiting occurs within 1 hour of administration. Always complete full course even if symptoms disappear.
Why Malarone Excels Against Resistant Strains
| Medication | Resistance Rate | Typical Course |
|---|---|---|
| Malarone | 1.2%* | Daily |
| Chloroquine | 78%** | Weekly |
*NICE 2023 data **WHO 2022 report
Malarone vs Doxycycline: Key Differences in Malaria Prophylaxis
| Factor | Malarone | Doxycycline |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Antiprotozoal combination | Tetracycline antibiotic |
| Treatment Duration Post-Travel | 7 days | 28 days |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea (11%), headache (8%) | Photosensitivity (37%), oesophageal irritation |
| NICE Efficacy Rating* | 98% against P. falciparum | 92% in resistant areas |
Malarone Dosage Protocol: Evidence-Based Schedule
Optimal Administration Timeline
- Start 48 hours pre-departure
- Take daily with fatty meal (>20g fat)
- Continue 7 days post-return
Example 14-day trip:
Pre-travel: 2 days âž” 2 tablets
During travel: 14 days âž” 14 tablets
Post-travel: 7 days âž” 7 tablets
Total required: 23 tablets
Malarone Tablet Composition: Active Ingredients & Excipients
Active Components
- Atovaquone 250mg - disrupts mitochondrial electron transport
- Proguanil HCl 100mg - inhibits dihydrofolate reductase
Pharmaceutical Additives
- Binding agents: Hypromellose, polyethylene glycol
- Absorption enhancers: Poloxamer 188
Safety Profile: Recognised Side Effects & Contraindications
Reported Adverse Reactions (MHRA 2023 Data)
- Gastrointestinal: 12% incidence (vs 18% for doxycycline)
- Neurological: 3% report headaches
- Dermatological: 2% experience rash
Absolute Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30)
- Concurrent rifampicin therapy
- Pregnancy Category B3 status
Critical Drug Interactions: Malarone Compatibility Guide
| Medication | Interaction Risk | Management Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | ↑ INR monitoring required | Daily PT/INR checks |
| Antacids | ↓ Atovaquone absorption | Separate by 4+ hours |
Always consult our malaria specialists about current medications
Malaria Prevention Protocol: 3 Essential Steps
- Complete antimalarial course
- Use DEET 50% repellent
- Sleep under insecticide-treated net
Where Can I Buy Malarone Online in the UK
Secure Malarone Prescription & Next-Day Delivery Service
Order Malarone with confidence through our UK-registered travel health specialists, who review all requests within 4 working hours. We guarantee same-day prescription approval for eligible travellers and dispatch orders placed before 3pm for next-day tracked delivery.
Our Malarone service combines competitive pricing with strict adherence to MHRA safety standards, ensuring your malaria prophylaxis is dispensed through GPhC-registered pharmacies. Every purchase includes:
- Discreet packaging with dosage instructions
- GDPR-compliant consultation
- Standard (atovaquone/proguanil 250/100mg) tablets
Our Malarone clinical team ensures:
- Full travel itinerary review (including stopover locations)
- Interaction checks (especially with warfarin and tetracyclines)
- Personalised dosing schedule (start 1-2 days before travel)
Always consult your GP if pregnant, breastfeeding, or with severe kidney impairment. Must continue for 7 days after leaving risk area. Not suitable for long-term use (>28 days).
Getting your medication is quick and easy with our simple 4-step process:
Start Consultation
Complete our brief health questionnaire about your medical history and current health.
Medical Review
UK-registered clinicians review your consultation for safe prescribing.
Pharmacy Processing
If approved, our partner pharmacy prepares your medication.
Fast Dispatch
Your order is dispatched via your chosen delivery method.
What does the online consultation involve?
You'll answer questions about your medical history and current health to ensure safe prescribing. Honest responses are vital for your safety.
How do I reorder medication?
Use the login details emailed after your first order to access your account and reorder.
How does the secure chat portal work?
Clinicians may contact you via your account's chat portal to discuss your treatment. Respond securely within your account.
At Chemist Doctor, we respect your privacy and ensure complete discretion at every step.
Discreet Packaging
All orders are shipped in discreet, tamper-evident packaging sealed inside anonymous mailing bags.
Secure Data
Your personal and medical information is kept strictly confidential with SSL encryption.
Private Consultations
All consultations are conducted privately by UK-registered clinicians.
Anonymous Billing
Credit card statements show a neutral descriptor with no reference to medications.
Will my GP be informed about my order?
Only with your consent. We recommend updating your GP directly for seamless care.
We offer two reliable delivery options to suit your needs:
| Service Type | Delivery Speed | Order Cut-off | Carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Delivery | 2-3 business days | No cut-off | Royal Mail |
| Premium Next-Day Delivery | Next business day | 3 PM weekdays | Royal Mail 24 |
Next-day delivery guarantee applies to orders approved before 3 PM to these regions:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
Service Restrictions: We currently cannot deliver to: Republic of Ireland, Continental Europe, USA, or Canada
Is packaging discreet?
Yes. All orders are shipped in plain, unmarked packaging via tracked courier services.
Do I need to stay home for delivery?
No. You'll receive a tracking number to monitor your parcel's progress.
Do you deliver on weekends or bank holidays?
Deliveries occur Monday–Friday only. We do not ship on weekends or UK bank holidays.
What should I do if my order hasn't arrived?
Use your tracking number to locate the parcel or contact our support team for assistance.
Can I receive delivery updates via SMS?
Yes. Provide your mobile number at checkout for courier updates. We will not use it for marketing purposes.
Credit/Debit Cards
Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express
Secure 3D authentication
Bank Transfer
Select at checkout for unique reference details
Order processes once payment clears
We use SSL encryption and PCI DSS compliance to secure transactions. Learn more in our Privacy Policy.
How long do refunds take to process?
Card payments: Refunds appear in 3–5 days.
Bank transfers: We'll contact you for account details to return funds.
Why was my order declined?
Declined orders are not charged. Card authorisations release funds within 3–5 days (contact your bank for details).
Can I return prescription medication?
No. UK law prohibits returns of dispensed prescription treatments for safety reasons.
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Malarone FAQs
What is Malarone?
Malarone is a branded anti-malarial medication containing two active ingredients: atovaquone (250mg) and proguanil (100mg). It prevents malaria transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical regions including Africa, South/Central America, and parts of Asia.
How does Malarone work?
Atovaquone and proguanil work synergistically to disrupt malaria parasite replication in the bloodstream. Proguanil enhances atovaquone's effectiveness, preventing the parasite from developing and causing infection.
Who is at risk of malaria?
Malaria risk is highest in tropical/subtropical regions including Africa, South Asia, and South America. Higher-risk groups include:
- Children and pregnant/breastfeeding women
- Former residents of malaria zones (immunity diminishes)
- Travellers to endemic areas during transmission seasons
Important: Seek immediate medical attention for flu-like symptoms occurring up to one year after travel.
Who cannot take Malarone?
Malarone is contraindicated for:
- Those allergic to atovaquone or proguanil
- Individuals with severe kidney impairment
- Children under 3 years or weighing <11kg
- Those experiencing uncontrolled vomiting/diarrhoea
- Pregnant/breastfeeding women (unless specifically advised by a doctor)
Always consult your GP or pharmacist before use to discuss potential risks.
How should I take Malarone?
Dosage protocol for adults (≥16 years, >40kg):
- Start 1-2 days before entering malaria zone
- Take one tablet daily at consistent times
- Consume with food/milk to enhance absorption and reduce side effects
- Continue for 7 days after leaving risk area
If vomiting occurs within 1 hour of dosing, take a replacement tablet. Missed doses should be taken when remembered (never double dose).
When should I stop taking Malarone?
Continue taking Malarone for 7 full days after leaving the malaria-endemic area, regardless of when you started the course. Always follow your prescribing clinician's specific instructions.
What are Malarone's side effects?
Common side effects (affecting ~10% of users):
- Headache
- Nausea, abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
Less common effects (<1%):
- Dizziness, insomnia
- Fever, rash
- Reduced appetite
Taking with food minimises gastrointestinal effects. Consult your doctor if side effects persist.
Does Malarone interact with other medicines?
Significant interactions occur with:
- Rifampicin/rifabutin (TB antibiotics)
- Metoclopramide (anti-nausea drug)
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Warfarin and similar anticoagulants
Always disclose current medications to your prescribing clinician.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Malarone?
No direct interaction exists, but alcohol may exacerbate dizziness or gastrointestinal side effects. Exercise caution and moderate consumption.
Is Malarone suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Malarone is not recommended due to potential risks to the child. Consult your GP for individual risk assessment and alternative options.
Branded vs generic Malarone: which should I choose?
Both contain identical active ingredients (atovaquone/proguanil) and are equally effective. Key differences:
- Generic: Typically 25-30% cheaper
- Branded (GSK): Preferred by some patients for familiarity
Neither is available on NHS prescription - both require private purchase.
How effective is Malarone for malaria prevention?
When taken correctly, Malarone provides high protection against Plasmodium falciparum (the most dangerous malaria strain). Effectiveness requires:
- Confirming suitability for destination (check FitForTravel)
- Strict adherence to dosing schedule
- Complementary bite prevention (DEET, nets)
No prophylaxis offers 100% protection.
Where can I safely buy Malarone online in the UK?
Purchase only from UK-regulated pharmacies displaying:
- General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration
- Care Quality Commission (CQC) certification
- MHRA compliance
Reputable providers require a completed online health assessment before dispensing. Avoid unregulated sellers or international sources.
 | Authored by Nabeel M |
Medical Content Manager & Pharmacy Associate
Nabeel is a co-founder of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Usman M (2073618) |
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist
Usman is a co-founder, and superintendent pharmacist of Chemist Doctor. He leads the clinical team and online prescribing services, utilising his expertise.
Review Date: 24 May 2025
Next Review: 14 December 2025
Published on: 23 May 2025
Last Updated: 24 May 2025
Responsible Pharmacist
 | Usman Mir Superintendent GPhc: 2073618 |
We Are Regulated
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Chemist Doctor is an online pharmacy and online doctor service, owned and operated by Chem Doc Ltd (Company Reg. 16478812). Prescriptions are managed by our sister company, Inspire Pharmacy (GPhC No. 9011381), a registered pharmacy located at Unit 18, Croft Road Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0TW. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. It should support, not replace, advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor if you suspect a health issue or before beginning new medication. Ensure you read the leaflets provided with any medicines. For further details, visit our policies and terms & conditions at the bottom of each page.
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