Malarone Paediatric 62.5 mg / 25 mg Tablets

Price range: £28.99 through £46.99

Malarone Paediatric Tablets are POM antimalarial medicines designed for children aged 11kg–40kg.
Contain atovaquone and proguanil for reliable daily malaria prevention.
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Description

Malarone Paediatric Tablets are a prescription-only antimalarial medicine used to protect children aged 11kg to 40kg against malaria, specifically Plasmodium falciparum infection. Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease common in many tropical and subtropical countries.

Malarone Paediatric is particularly effective for short-term travel to regions with a high risk of drug-resistant malaria. The tablets combine two active ingredients—atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride—which work together to stop the parasite’s lifecycle in the body.

How It Works

The active ingredients disrupt essential biological functions in the malaria parasite:

Atovaquone interferes with mitochondrial function within the parasite

Proguanil inhibits folic acid synthesis needed for parasite DNA replication

This dual action provides highly effective protection against malaria and prevents the development of resistance when taken as directed.

Why Choose Malarone Paediatric Tablets

These tablets are widely recommended by NHS travel clinics and GPs for paediatric malaria prophylaxis. They offer dependable protection and a short post-travel dosing period compared to older alternatives.

Benefits include:

Trusted paediatric malaria prevention

Child-friendly dosage based on body weight

Once-daily administration

Short 7-day post-travel treatment

Effective in regions with chloroquine resistance

Malarone Paediatric is also more palatable and easier to crush or mix into food, making it convenient for younger children.

Important Note

Begin taking Malarone Paediatric 1–2 days before entering a malaria area. Continue throughout the stay and for 7 days after leaving. Ensure all doses are taken consistently each day. If vomiting occurs within 1 hour of dosing, repeat the dose.

Directions

Note: Follow your GP’s dosing schedule and weight-based instructions.

  • For Prevention (based on child’s weight):

    • 11–20kg: 1 tablet once daily

    • 21–30kg: 2 tablets once daily

    • 31–40kg: 3 tablets once daily

  • Dosing Schedule:

    • Start 1–2 days before travel

    • Continue daily during travel

    • Continue for 7 days after leaving risk area

  • Administration:

    • With food or milk

    • Tablets may be crushed for ease

Storage:

  • Store below 30°C

  • Keep out of reach of children

  • Use only under medical supervision

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredients (per tablet):

    • Atovaquone 62.5mg

    • Proguanil hydrochloride 25mg

  • Key Excipients:

    • Lactose monohydrate

    • Cellulose

    • Hypromellose

    • Sodium starch glycolate

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Headache

  • Stomach pain

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

Rare but serious:

  • Skin rash or hives

  • Mouth ulcers

  • Behavioural changes (uncommon)

Seek immediate medical help for signs of allergic reaction or persistent symptoms.

Warnings

  • Contraindications:

    • Allergy to any component

    • Severe renal impairment

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding:

    • Not applicable for paediatric use; consult GP if relevant

  • Drug Interactions:

    • Inform your GP of any other medication

  • Age/Weight Restrictions:

    • For children 11kg–40kg only

    • Use adult version for those over 40kg

  • Start 1 to 2 days before travel and continue daily during the stay. Keep taking it for 7 days after leaving the malaria area.
  • If vomiting occurs within 1 hour, give another dose immediately. If vomiting continues, consult a doctor.
  • Some medicines, such as antibiotics, HIV treatments, and blood thinners, may interfere with Malarone Paediatric. Always check with a doctor first.
  • Yes, it’s important to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and sleep under a treated mosquito net.
  • Yes, the tablet can be crushed and mixed with food or a milky drink to make it easier to take.