Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil)

Do's 

• Take the medication with food or a milky drink such as whole milk or a milkshake. 
• Swallow whole to avoid the bitter taste. If you have trouble swallowing, crush and mix with condensed milk.  
• Start 1-2 days before entering a high-risk area for prevention, continue while there, and for 7 days after leaving. 
• Take the medication for 3 days for treatment.  
• Continue taking even if you feel well. 
• Prevent mosquito bites with repellents, clothing, and nets. 
• Seek medical help immediately if you develop malaria symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, etc. Malaria can return even after treatment. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens when used for treatment. 
• Consult your healthcare provider for the latest information specific to your travel destination. For complete treatment, primaquine may be needed alongside Malarone. 

Don'ts 

• Don't save the mixture if you crush and mix with condensed milk. 
• Don't take more or less than prescribed or stop early without consulting your healthcare provider.   

The dosage varies based on your condition, purpose (prevention or treatment), and weight for children. 

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Itching
• Weakness
• Dizziness

Serious side effects:

• Signs of serious liver problems, such as severe or persistent nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, unexplained tiredness, dark urine, or yellowing of the eyes/skin
• Signs of anemia, such as worsening tiredness, rapid breathing, pale skin/lips/nails, or fast heartbeat while resting
• Signs of severe infection, such as high fever, severe chills, body aches, or sore throat
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Malarone,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider about allergies to either atovaquone or proguanil, or any other medications to avoid potential allergic reactions.

Discuss existing conditions like diarrhea, vomiting, kidney problems, liver problems, mental health issues, or seizures with your healthcare provider, as these can affect treatment suitability.

This medication may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until side effects subside. Limit alcohol and marijuana use as they can worsen dizziness.

Disclose all medications (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products) to your healthcare provider or dentist before surgery or dental procedures.

Malarone should only be used during pregnancy when absolutely necessary. Traveling to a malarious area while pregnant poses a significant risk to both mother and baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Not recommended for mothers with infants under 11 pounds (5 kg) due to unknown effects on the infant. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking Malarone.