Travel medicine
Antimalarial Tablets
Expert advice and prescription antimalarials dispensed at the pharmacy. No GP visit required at Cotham Pharmacy, Bristol.
Book FREE ConsultationWhat is Malaria?
Malaria is a life threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions including sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia and parts of Central and South America.
Symptoms include high fever, chills, headache, muscle pain and fatigue. Without prompt treatment, malaria can progress rapidly and become fatal. There is no vaccine currently available in the UK for travellers — antimalarial tablets are the primary preventative measure alongside mosquito bite avoidance.
Do I need antimalarials?
Antimalarials are recommended for travel to malaria endemic regions. The type of antimalarial recommended depends on your destination, the malaria species present, your health and any medications you are currently taking. Our pharmacist will assess all of these factors at your free consultation.
High risk destinations
Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Central and South America, parts of the Middle East
Bite avoidance
Antimalarials must be used alongside mosquito bite avoidance measures — repellents, long sleeves, bed nets
Start before travel
Most antimalarials must be started before departure. Book early to allow time to start your course.
Which antimalarial is right for me?
We offer all major antimalarial options. Our pharmacist will recommend the most suitable one for your destination and circumstances at your free consultation.
Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil)
Most popularMalarone is the most commonly prescribed antimalarial for UK travellers. It is well tolerated with fewer side effects than alternatives.
- Start 1–2 days before travel
- Take daily during travel
- Continue for 7 days after leaving the malaria zone
- Suitable for most destinations including chloroquine-resistant areas
Doxycycline
Cost effectiveDoxycycline is an antibiotic with antimalarial properties. It is a cost effective option for longer trips and has additional benefits against some other travel infections.
- Start 1–2 days before travel
- Take daily during travel
- Continue for 4 weeks after leaving the malaria zone
- Can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight — sun protection essential
- Not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women
Mefloquine (Lariam)
Weekly tabletMefloquine is taken once weekly and is suitable for certain destinations. It is not suitable for everyone and requires careful screening before prescribing.
- Start 2–3 weeks before travel
- Take once weekly during travel
- Continue for 4 weeks after leaving the malaria zone
- Not suitable for those with certain psychiatric or neurological conditions
- Our pharmacist will screen carefully before prescribing
Malarone Paediatric
For childrenMalarone Paediatric is a lower dose formulation of Malarone specifically for children. The dose is determined by the child's weight.
- Suitable for children weighing 11kg and above
- Same dosing schedule as adult Malarone
- Our pharmacist will calculate the correct dose based on your child's weight
Pricing
Pricing for antimalarials is available on our dedicated prices page.
All consultations are completely free with no obligation.
Ready to get protected?
Free consultations. Same day appointments available. Specialist travel health expertise.
Call us on 0117 973 6580 or book online.