Bourne End Pharmacy

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Your Essential Guide to Anti-Malaria Tablets: Stay Protected When You Travel

Your Essential Guide to Anti-Malaria Tablets: Stay Protected When You Travel

If you’re planning a trip to a tropical or subtropical region, protecting yourself from malaria should be a top priority. One of the most effective ways to reduce your risk is by taking anti-malaria tablets, which are widely available through pharmacies like ours. But with multiple types of tablets, different dosing requirements, and region-specific risks, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right option.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about anti-malaria tablets—from how they work to when you need them and where to get them.

What Is Malaria?

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Once in your body, the parasite infects your red blood cells and causes symptoms such as:

  • -> Fever

  • -> Chills

  • -> Muscle aches

  • -> Headaches

  • -> Vomiting and diarrhoea

If left untreated, malaria can become life-threatening—especially in children, pregnant women, and travellers with no prior exposure.

mosquito on skin

Which Countries Have a Malaria Risk?

You’ll need to consider anti-malaria tablets if you’re travelling to:

  • -> Sub-Saharan Africa

  • -> Parts of South and Southeast Asia

  • -> Central and South America

  • -> Some areas of the Middle East

  • -> Specific islands in the South Pacific

Before you travel, always check up-to-date guidance using resources like the Travel Health Pro website or speak to a pharmacist at your local travel clinic.

Types of Anti-Malaria Tablets

Several types of anti-malaria tablets are available. Each has its pros, cons, and region-specific suitability. Here are the most commonly prescribed options:

1. Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)

  • -> Dose: Taken once daily

  • -> Start: 1–2 days before travel

  • -> Continue: For 7 days after leaving the risk area

  • -> Pros: Fewer side effects, short post-trip course

  • -> Cons: More expensive than other options

2. Doxycycline

  • -> Dose: Taken once daily

  • -> Start: 1–2 days before travel

  • -> Continue: For 4 weeks after leaving the risk area

  • -> Pros: Affordable, also protects against other infections

  • -> Cons: Can cause sun sensitivity and stomach upset

3. Mefloquine (Lariam)

  • -> Dose: Taken once weekly

  • -> Start: 2–3 weeks before travel

  • -> Continue: For 4 weeks after leaving the area

  • -> Pros: Weekly dosing

  • -> Cons: Potential for vivid dreams and rare psychiatric side effects

How to Choose the Right Anti-Malaria Tablets

Choosing the best anti-malaria medication depends on:

  • -> Your destination (some areas have drug-resistant malaria strains)

  • -> Your health status and medical history

  • -> How long you’ll be travelling

  • -> Your budget and preference for daily vs. weekly tablets

That’s why it’s important to consult with a pharmacist or travel health specialist. At Bourne End Pharmacy, our team can guide you through your options and issue a private prescription where appropriate.

Additional Ways to Prevent Malaria

Anti-malaria tablets are crucial, but they should be used alongside mosquito-avoidance strategies:

  • -> Sleep under mosquito nets (preferably insecticide-treated)

  • -> Apply mosquito repellent with DEET (at least 20–50%)

  • -> Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially in the evening

  • -> Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodation

This combined approach gives you the best chance of staying protected.

packing anti malaria tablets before trip

Where Can I Get Anti-Malaria Tablets Near Me?

You can book a travel health consultation at Bourne End Pharmacy, where we’ll assess your destination, medical history, and travel plans before recommending the most appropriate anti-malaria tablets.

We offer:

  • -> Fast, same-day appointments

  • -> In-clinic consultations with trained professionals

  • -> Private prescriptions for malaria prevention

  • -> Travel vaccine planning and advice

Simply book online or give us a call to get started.

Common FAQs About Anti-Malaria Tablets

Q: Do I really need malaria tablets for a short trip?

Yes—mosquitoes don’t care how long you’re visiting. Even a weekend in a malaria-risk zone warrants protection.

Q: Can I get anti-malaria tablets over the counter?

No. In the UK, they’re available through pharmacies with a private prescription after a short consultation.

Q: What if I forget a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Consistency is key for full protection.

Don’t Leave Without Protection

Malaria is a preventable disease—but only if you take the right precautions. Before your next adventure, make sure to book a travel health consultation at Bourne End Pharmacy and find the anti-malaria tablets that best suit your needs.

Stay safe. Stay informed. Travel well.

This blog was written on behalf of Bourne End Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.