How can Boots help me with malaria prevention?
If you already have a prescription for Malarone, simply click on I have a prescription and we can arrange for this to be dispensed. You can either collect your treatment from your chosen Boots pharmacy or have it delivered to you. If you decide to have it delivered to you at home, please note that charges may apply.
If you have checked at the Fit for Travel website www.fitfortravel.nhs.co.uk and confirmed that you are travelling to an area affected by malaria, and that Malarone (proguanil hydrochloride and atovaquone) is recommended, we can arrange for you to receive this. Simply click I need a prescription. to find out how to get your treatment.
Boots also offers a range of travel products both in our stores and on boots.com, including bite relief creams and insect repellents
Remember that a Boots pharmacist is always happy to give you any advice that you may need about holiday healthcare for you and your family.
Which of the anti-malarials recommended is right for me?
Boots can only prescribe Malarone. If the Fit for Travel website has recommended a choice of medicines, speak to your doctor, pharmacist or travel clinic about which option may be suitable for you.
Other malaria prevention medicines are available from our instore Boots Travel Health Service. Click here to find out more.
If you have been recommended Proguanil, Chloroquine or both then you will able to purchase these from your local Boots pharmacy (subject to availability) or from boots.com once you have a prescription from your doctor.
How does Malarone work?
Malarone prevents malaria by killing a certain type of malaria parasite. Some types of malaria become resistant to some anti-malarials, so it is important to check which one is recommended each time you travel.
What are the ingredients in Malarone?
Malarone contains two active ingredients proguanil hydrochloride and atovaquone. These are both medicines that are active against the parasite that causes malaria.
How do I take Malarone?
You should start taking Malarone two days before travelling to an area affected by malaria. You continue to take it whilst you are there and then for another seven days after you return to a malaria-free location.
You'll need to take one Malarone tablet once a day, at the same time each day with food or a milky drink.
How effective is Malarone?
Malarone is most effective when the complete course is taken. Stopping early will put you at risk. No malaria prevention treatment can completely protect you, so it is very important that you also take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, for example, by putting up screens on doors and windows, using a repellent spray and using the air conditioning.
Are there any side effects to Malarone?
Malarone can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The side effects are generally mild and include headaches, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Other possible side effects include coughing, mouth ulcers, dizziness and a rash. It is essential that you continue to take your malaria prevention medication as directed and if you cannot tolerate the side effects for any reason, you must seek advice about obtaining an alternative.
What if I am unwell on my return?
Remember to seek immediate medical advice if you have flu-like symptoms when you return or at any time up to a year after you return from travelling.
Read more on the Patient Information Leaflet.
Click here to find out more about our online clinics.
Click here to read a copy of our patient guide
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