What should you know about prophylaxis of malaria drugs?

Preventive malaria medicines act against malaria parasites, but the suitable choice depends on the destination and your individual health. A clinician may ask about pregnancy, allergies, kidney or liver problems, previous reactions and regular medicines before recommending an option.

The instructions vary: some medicines start before entering a risk area and continue after leaving it. Taking a dose late or stopping early can reduce protection. Medicines also do not prevent every mosquito bite, so repellent, covered skin and protected sleeping arrangements remain necessary.

Arrange a [Travel Health Consultation](/treatments/occupational-and-travel-medicine/travel-health-consultation/) with your route, departure date and medication list. Read the dispensing instructions, ask what to do after a missed dose or vomiting, and keep the medicine labelled while travelling.

Do not use another person’s tablets or assume an old prescription fits a new destination. Follow the agreed schedule and use bite precautions, especially during mosquito activity. A dedicated [Malaria Prophylaxis](/treatments/occupational-and-travel-medicine/malaria-prophylaxis/) appointment can address destination-specific choices.

Arrange prompt medical review for fever, chills or muscle aches during travel or after visiting an area where malaria occurs. Preventive medicine lowers risk but does not make malaria impossible. Give the clinician your travel dates and the name of the medicine used.

Emergency assessment is needed for confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, severe weakness or inability to keep fluids down. A [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/) may be part of the evaluation.

Ask how the medicine works, when each stage of the schedule begins and ends, which side effects matter, and whether your health history changes the recommendation. Ask where to obtain help abroad.