Indications
Malarone (active ingredients: atovaquone and proguanil) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Malaria Prophylaxis: Malarone is used for the prevention of malaria in adults and children caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including chloroquine-resistant strains.
- Malaria Treatment: It is indicated for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria infections in adults and children caused by Plasmodium falciparum.
Malarone belongs to a class of drugs known as antimalarials, which work by interfering with the life cycle of the malaria parasite, thereby preventing and treating malaria infections.
Uses and Dosage
Malarone is available as a tablet that should be taken by mouth with food or a milky drink (like whole milk or a milkshake) containing fat. If vomiting occurs within an hour of taking a dose, the dose should be repeated. Contact a doctor if vomiting persists after taking atovaquone/proguanil. Another medication to prevent vomiting or a different malaria medication may be needed.
The tablet should be taken whole and not chewed, as it has a bitter taste. If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, you may crush it and mix it with condensed milk, then take the mixture immediately.
Malarone (atovaquone / proguanil) comes in two strengths: an adult tablet containing 250 mg of atovaquone and 100 mg of proguanil, and a children's tablet containing 62.5 mg of atovaquone and 25 mg of proguanil. The typical dosing for Malarone depends on several factors, including the medical condition being treated or prevented, and the age and weight of the patient. Consult with your healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil):
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Low appetite
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil):
- Cough
- Discouragement
- Fear
- Feeling sad or empty
- Irritability
- Lack of appetite
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Mouth sores
- Nervousness
- Trouble concentrating
- Vivid dreams
Form and Strength
Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Malarone: Tablet
- 62.5/25mg
- 250/100mg
Atovaquone/Proguanil: Tablet
- 250/100mg
Caution
- Take Malarone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication without first consulting your healthcare provider.
- Malarone can interact with other medications, including some antibiotics and anticonvulsants. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are currently taking before starting Malarone.
- Malarone should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment or hepatic dysfunction, as it may cause increased drug concentrations in the body.
- Malarone may cause certain side effects, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Malarone may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its safety in these populations has not been established. Consult your healthcare provider before taking Malarone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Malarone may cause allergic reactions in some people. If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
- Malarone may interact with some herbal or dietary supplements, including St. John's wort, which can decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
- Malarone may increase the risk of sunburn or sun sensitivity in some individuals. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing if you are exposed to direct sun while taking Malarone.
- Malarone may lower the levels of folate in the body, which is important for fetal development. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant may need to take additional folic acid supplements while taking Malarone.
- Malarone may not be effective in all cases, and malaria prevention measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and mosquito repellent should also be used to reduce the risk of infection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drink alcohol while taking Malarone?
There is no known interaction between Malarone and alcohol. However, it is generally recommended to avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking any medication.
Can I take Malarone if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Malarone may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its safety in these populations has not been established. Consult your healthcare provider before taking Malarone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of Malarone?
If you miss a dose of Malarone, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Is Malarone (atovaquone / proguanil) guaranteed to prevent malaria if I take it?
No, it is not guaranteed that taking Malarone (atovaquone / proguanil) (or any other preventative malaria medication) will completely prevent malaria. This is because there are several risk factors that affect your chances of getting infected.
Resources
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=fc22e8d8-3bfb-4f70-a599-dd81262a4887
- https://gskpro.com/content/dam/global/hcpportal/en_US/Prescribing_Information/Malarone/pdf/MALARONE.PDF
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/021078s016lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-19799/malarone-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/malarone.html
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