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Atovaquone and proguanil

Brand names: Malarone

Malarone prevents and treats malaria. Travelers take it daily, starting before the trip.

Brand namesMalarone
Type of medicineAntimalarial
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's usually well tolerated. Also prevent mosquito bites with repellent and nets.

What it's used for

  • Preventing malaria during travel
  • Treating malaria

How to take it

  • Start 1 to 2 days before travel, take daily while there, and for 7 days after leaving.
  • Take with food or a milky drink at the same time each day.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Upset stomach
  • Headache
  • Mouth sores
Call 911Fever during or after travel to a malaria area (get tested right away, even if taking it)
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever

Warnings

  • Not for prevention in people with severe kidney disease.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Rifampin and some HIV medicines lower its level.
  • It can raise warfarin's effect.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not usually used in pregnancy. Ask a travel medicine provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.