1. Do I need mosquito protection if I’m taking Malarone?
Yes.Still use repellent, cover up after sunset, and sleep under a treated net. Tablets don’t replace bite prevention.
What is Malarone?
Malarone is a prescription medicine used to prevent and treat malaria, a serious infection caused by Plasmodium parasites. Malaria is spread through bites from infected mosquitoes in certain tropical and subtropical regions.
Malarone works by killing the malaria parasite in the blood and preventing it from multiplying.
It can be used for:
- Prevention (prophylaxis) of malaria when travelling to risk areas
- Treatment of uncomplicated malaria
Active ingredients
- Atovaquone – interferes with the parasite’s energy production
- Proguanil hydrochloride – prevents the parasite from multiplying and supports atovaquone
Who is it suitable for?
Suitable for:
- Adults travelling to malaria-risk areas
- Adults diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria
Children may require a different dose or formulation and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Not suitable for:
- People allergic to atovaquone or proguanil
- People with severe kidney problems (unless advised by a specialist
Always inform your prescriber about any medical conditions or medicines you are taking.
How to take Malarone
Take exactly as prescribed and read the patient information leaflet before use.
For malaria prevention
- Take once daily
- Start 1–2 days before entering a malaria-risk area
- Continue daily during your stay
- Continue for 7 days after leaving the area
For malaria treatment
- Usually taken as a 3-day course
- The exact dose depends on your weight and medical advice
Important advice
- Take with food or a milky drink to improve absorption
- Complete the full course
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember
- Do not take a double dose
Even when taking prevention, you must still use mosquito bite protection such as nets and repellents.
Side effects
Not everyone experiences side effects.
Common side effects
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Mild rash or itching
- Feeling weak
Uncommon side effects
- Liver inflammation
- Changes in liver blood tests
- Severe skin reactions
- Seizures
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Hallucinations
- Hair loss
Seek urgent medical help if you experience:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Severe rash
- Chest tightness
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Storage
- Store below 25°C
- Keep in original packaging
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children
- Do not use after the expiry date
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Frequently Asked Questions
2. Should I take Malarone with food?
Yes. Take it with food or a milky drink to help your body absorb it better.
3. Can I drive whilst taking Malarone?
If you feel dizzy, don’t drive or use machines.
4. Do I need mosquito protection if I’m taking Malarone?
Yes. Still use repellent, cover up after sunset, and sleep under a treated net. Tablets don’t replace bite prevention.
Our Clinical Authors
This page has been written by a registered UK pharmacist and reviewed by our clinical team to ensure it is accurate, clear and reflects current clinical guidance.
Last medically reviewed: 06 July 2026
Last updated: 06 July 2026