Malarone vs Lariam: Which Malaria Tablets Are Right for You?

Feb 28, 2017 Malaria

Planning a tropical holiday is incredibly exciting, but among the euphoria of making your booking, it is important to remember one small yet potentially deadly pest. We are not talking about lions, tigers or bears, but the tiny, irritating mosquito.

If your dream trip takes you to any malaria hot spots, you have two major concerns: malaria prevention and how the medication might affect you. Both Malarone and Lariam are effective malaria prevention tablets, but they differ significantly in their dosing schedules and side effect profiles. Finding the right anti-malarial tablets for your trip depends entirely on your destination and your personal medical history.

 

What Is Malaria, and Do You Need Tablets?

Malaria is a serious disease caused by a parasite carried by certain mosquitoes. If you are bitten by an infected insect, you will likely contract the disease. Symptoms include a high temperature, headache, sweats, chills and vomiting. In the worst cases, it can lead to organ failure.

Not all tropical destinations require medication. Malaria risk exists in specific regions, and requirements can change. It is essential to check the requirements for your specific destination at Travel Health Pro. Because these medications require a prescription, a clinical consultation is vital to ensure you are protected safely.

 

What Is Malarone?

Malarone malaria tablets contain two active ingredients: atovaquone and proguanil. These work together to prevent malaria parasites from growing in your red blood cells.

Malarone is a daily tablet. One of its main advantages is the short course required; you typically start taking it one or two days before travel and only need to continue for seven days after you return. It is generally well tolerated, with most people experiencing only mild side effects, if any.
 

What Is Lariam (Mefloquine)?

Lariam contains the active ingredient mefloquine. The primary appeal of Lariam is its weekly dosing schedule, which some travellers find more convenient than a daily pill.

However, Lariam requires a much longer window of use. You must start taking it three weeks before you enter a malaria zone to ensure it is in your system and to monitor for side effects. You then continue it for four weeks after your return. Lariam has stricter suitability restrictions, particularly for those with a history of mental health issues or certain neurological conditions.
 

Malarone vs Lariam: Key Differences

Who Should Take Malarone?

Malarone is often the preferred choice for:

• Travellers on shorter trips who do not want to take medication for weeks after returning.
• Those who prefer a medication with a generally milder side effect profile.
• Last-minute travellers who do not have three weeks to start a Lariam course.

 

Who Should Take Lariam?

Lariam may be suitable for:

• Travellers on very long trips where taking a daily pill is impractical.
• Those who have used Lariam successfully before without side effects.
• Travellers for whom cost is a primary factor, as weekly dosing can be more economical.
   

 

Which Malaria Tablet is Best for You?

The best anti-malaria tablets for you can only be determined through a consultation. Our pharmacist will look at where you are going, how long you are staying, and your medical history. It is vital to be honest about your health, especially regarding your mental health history, to ensure your medication does not interfere with your holiday.

 

Other Ways to Prevent Malaria

Medication is a vital safety net, but bite avoidance is your first line of defence. You can view various preventative products in the Simply Meds Anti-Malaria category. To stay safe:

• Use high-quality insect repellent (ideally containing DEET).
• Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Sleep under a mosquito net treated with insecticide.
• Keep windows and doors closed or screened.

 

Make Sure You Have Everything Prepared, Including Anti-Malarial Meds

When packing for your holiday, check that you have everything you need to stay fit and healthy while travelling. Whether you require a daily or weekly anti-malaria tablet, being prepared is the best way to ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons. 

Check your destination requirements early so you can begin your course of treatment on time, and check with your GP or pharmacist about other vaccines, etc., you may need before setting off.