Taking antimalarial medication is vital in some parts of the world where malaria is endemic. Furthermore, different regions require different medication to be effective. You’ll find out which medication is recommended for the areas you’re travelling to during your travel health consultation with a Nomad expert, or you can find out using the NHS Fit for Travel website. The most commonly taken antimalarial is Atovaquone/Proguanil, but we often get asked what’s the difference between this and Malarone which may also be recommended.
The Differences Between Atovaquone/Proguanil & Malarone
Simply put, there are no differences! Malarone Is a brand name, where as Atovaquone/Proguanil is the generic name of the combination of medicines used to produce both versions of the antimalarial. In recent years, the exclusive license for the sale of Atovaquone/Proguanil as Malarone expired and the medication could be produced by other pharmaceutical manufacturers under the generic names. This is why we often refer to the combination of Atovaquone/Proguanil as Generic Malarone – same ingredients, no brand name.
Malarone vs Atovquone/Proguanil: Which Should I Choose?
It’s really up to you. Some people prefer to use Malarone as they’ve used it before and it works for them. Others prefer Atovaquone/Proguanil as it is more affordable. The generic and branded versions both follow the same schedule, both are a combined pill you take once a day.
Whichever malaria medication you choose, it’s important to remember that none give you 100% protection against malaria. It’s vital that you keep using DEET insect repellents & mosquito nets and cover up at dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
How to Buy Atovaquone/Proguanil or Malarone
It’s super easy to purchase your antimalarials safely online through the Nomad pharmacy. Simply choose your preferred medication and follow the instructions to complete your simple free online consultation. Your order will be reviewed by the Nomad pharmacists, prescribed and shipped to your home or work. If you need help, click here for a step by step guide to ordering malaria tablets online.
Hi. I took the generic version last year but suffered badly with sleepless nights and very strange dreams. Are the ingredients in Malarone exactly the same and therefore I would have had the same side effects?
The ingredients are the same, Malarone is simply a brand name for the that combination of medicines. You may be able to get a different antimalarial that works in the region you’re going to, our Nurses will be able to advise on a suitable medication for you at any of our clinics
Hello, I bought Atovaquone/Proguanil pills but already have some Malarone pills left from last trip to Africa. (Right now you can’t buy Malarone in my country) Will there be a problem if I first use Malarone and then Atovaquone/Proguanil pills?
We’d recommend you check with a Doctor or Nurse before you use the older tablets, and that they are safely in date & have been stored correctly. The ingredients are the same, Malarone is a brand name version of the same combination of generic medicines, so they can be used interchangeably