Information on Atovaquone-Proguanil (MALARONE®)

You will be spending part of your trip in an area where chloroquine-resistant malaria is widespread. Malaria is an important cause of disease and death abroad. It is a blood infection caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted by a mosquito bite.

Malaria can be prevented by taking medication regularly. However, since no drug is 100% effective, it is important to protect yourself against mosquito bites: use an insect repellent containing DEET, sleep under mosquito netting (preferably impregnated with permethrin), avoid perfumes, wear pale colored clothes that cover most of the body, and avoid going out in the evenings and at night. These measures are just as important as taking medicines.

Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone®) is recommended at the following dosage:

Adults:

  • 1 tablet daily

Children:

  • 5-8 kg: 1/2 pediatric tablet daily
  • 9-10 kg: 3/4 pediatric tablet daily
  • 11-20 kg: 1 pediatric tablet daily
  • 21-30 kg: 2 pediatric tablets daily
  • 31- 40 kg: 3 pediatric tablets daily
  • > 40 kg: adult dose

Start taking the medication on the day before departure and continue preventive treatment during your trip and for 7 days after leaving the region where malaria can be transmitted.

This medication must be taken with food or with a glass of milk.

Side effects

Most travelers have no side effects. Occasionally, stomach aches, nausea, diarrhea, mouth ulcers or a rash can occur. These reactions are usually minor and tend to be temporary; they disappear when medication is stopped.

In case of fever

Despite taking preventive medication, fever that occurs when traveling or in the months after your return may be a sign of malaria. See a doctor immediately and tell him or her about your recent travel to a tropical area.

 

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