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Are Malaria Pills Worth It? Everything You Need to Know
Sep 17, 2017 Malaria
Malaria is a serious tropical disease spread by mosquitoes, caused by a parasite transmitted through bites. Symptoms range from mild, flu-like fever to severe complications. As it is impossible to predict how seriously an individual will be affected, preventative treatments, specifically anti-malaria tablets, are a vital part of travel prep.
Many travellers worry about side effects, having heard stories of hallucinations or depression associated with older medications. However, modern malaria pills are generally well-tolerated. Given that malaria can be life-threatening, forgoing medication is a risk healthcare professionals advise against.
Which Malaria Tablet is Best for You?
Choosing the right protection depends on your destination, medical history, and budget. Below is a comparison of the most common options available in the UK.
Comparison Table: Anti-Malaria Medication
| Medication | Dosing | Start Before Travel | After Travel | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil) |
Daily | 1-2 days | 7 days | Well tolerated, convenient short course. |
| Atovaquone / Proguanil (Generic) |
Daily | 1-2 days | 7 days | Same active ingredients as Malarone; more cost-effective. |
|
|
Daily | 1-2 days | 4 Weeks | Can cause sun sensitivity; an affordable antibiotic option. |
|
Chloroquine
|
Weekly | 1 Week | 4 Weeks | Limited to certain regions due to parasite resistance. |
Understanding Malaria Treatments
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
Malarone and its generic equivalent, Atovaquone/Proguanil, are modern antimalarials that produce fewer side effects than older treatments. They only need to be taken for seven days after returning, making them a popular choice for short trips. While some experience mild side effects like a headache or stomach upset, most people complete the course with no issues at all.
Doxycycline
Part of the tetracycline antibiotic family, Doxycycline is a highly effective and budget-friendly option. However, it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity), which is an important factor if you are travelling to a sunny climate. It is not recommended for pregnant women or children under twelve.
Malaria Vaccines: The Current Status
You may have seen news regarding malaria vaccines. While it is true that vaccines now exist (such as the RTS, S vaccine), they are currently intended for limited use in specific regions, primarily for children in sub-Saharan Africa.
Vaccines are not currently used for travellers. For anyone visiting a high-risk area from the UK, anti-malaria tablets remain the primary and most effective form of prevention. To help you prepare for your trip, you can check the latest clinical guidance and news on the official TravelHealthPro malaria factsheet.
Where to Get Malaria Pills for Travel
In the UK, you can buy malaria medication over the counter in small pack sizes of the Maloff brand to cover certain regions; a consultation is required to ensure the medicine is safe for you.
Getting protected is simple. You can use an online pharmacy option like Simply Meds Online to complete a quick consultation. It is vital to arrange your medication well before travel, as some treatments need to be started a week before you arrive at your destination.
View our full range of treatments in our Anti-Malaria Category.
Bite Prevention
The best way to avoid malaria is to avoid being bitten. Use these steps alongside your medication:
- Wear insect repellent (containing DEET) on all exposed skin.
- Cover up with long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing.
- Sleep under a pre-treated mosquito net.
- Use insecticides such as plug-ins or sprays in your room.
The Risks of Not Using Malaria Prevention Medication
If you travel to a high-risk area without protection, you may be at risk of contracting malaria. Without the protection of preventative pills, the parasite can multiply quickly in the bloodstream.
While medical care has improved, malaria remains a serious condition that can lead to severe anaemia, kidney failure, or respiratory distress. You should always check the specific risks for your destination on TravelHealthPro before you fly.
Ultimately, the question is, “Why take the risk?” - Taking a daily pill is a small price to pay for peace of mind while enjoying your holiday, particularly as malaria can cause severe complications.
Simply Meds Online is here to help with all of your holiday-related products and treatments, with quick delivery and discreet packaging.
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