Planning a trip to a tropical destination? Whether you’re heading to sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, or South America, it’s essential to think about your health before you go. One of the most important things to consider is how to protect yourself against malaria, a serious disease spread by mosquitoes.
 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know – from what malaria is, how malaria tablets work, who needs them, and how to get them from Superdrug Clinics. Our healthcare experts are just a click away, with tips for malaria prevention and advice on which malaria tablets might be right for you. 

What is malaria? 

Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite, which is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People who have malaria usually feel very unwell with a high fever, shaking chills, headache and nausea. Malaria is uncommon in cooler countries like the UK, but it is common in tropical and subtropical regions. 

Although malaria infection can be highly serious, fortunately it is preventable and curable. One of the best ways to protect yourself if you’re travelling to an area where malaria is a risk is by taking a course of anti-malaria tablets.  

 

How do malaria tablets work? 

Malaria tablets prevent or treat malaria by targeting the parasite that causes it. The tablets either kill the parasite or prevent it from multiplying, with different tablets targeting different stages in the parasite’s lifecycle.  

The two most common types of antimalarial tablets are:  

• Malarone 

Malarone works at an early stage in the parasite’s lifecycle. It kills the parasites while they are in the liver, which prevents them from being released into the bloodstream and multiplying.
 

• Doxycycline  

Doxycycline works in the blood to kill parasites there before they can reproduce.
 

 Who should take malaria tablets? 

Anyone who’s travelling to an endemic area is recommended to take malaria tablets. This is especially important for people who are more at risk from infections, such as pregnant women, children, people with weakened immune systems , older travellers, those with an absent or dysfunctional spleen, patients with other complex medical conditions and those travelling for longer periods. In all cases antimalarial tablets should be combined with other protective measures, such as insect repellent, long-sleeved tops and long trousers to keep your skin covered, and sleeping under a mosquito net.
 

With around 80 countries where malaria is common, it’s important to speak to a healthcare advisor about your travel plans if you’re visiting an endemic area. Superdrug Clinics are here to provide personalised advice on malaria prevention, helping you stay protected wherever your travels take you.
 

How to take malaria tablets 

It’s important to take malaria tablets as prescribed, to ensure they work properly. They usually need to be started a few days or weeks before you leave for your trip and should be continued for some time after you return. This ensures the medication is active throughout the parasite’s lifecycle, providing full protection before, during, and after your trip.  

Most malaria tablets are taken daily. If you miss a dose, don’t panic. If it’s still close to the time when you should have taken it, then take it right away to catch up. If more time has passed, e.g. it’s already the next day and you’re close to when you should take your next dose, then simply skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. This avoids doubling up on doses. 

 Are malaria tablets safe? 

Malaria tablets are generally safe and effective when taken as prescribed, but like all medications, they can occasionally cause side effects. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and headaches are some of the more common side effects, but these are often mild and can be managed with simple strategies.  

Taking antimalarials with food can help ease nausea and stomach discomfort, while staying hydrated and well-rested may reduce headaches and dizziness. If you have any concerns or questions about any medication you’re taking, don’t hesitate to speak to a healthcare professional.
 

Malaria services at Superdrug Clinics 

Malaria services are available from Superdrug Clinics, where you can also get expert advice. You can make an appointment here. Consultations offer the convenience of being either online or in-store, and we can provide your prescriptions for travel on the same day. Prices for Malaria tablets can be found here.
 

Be sure to add antimalaria advice to your checklist when planning your next big adventure. These little tablets are just as vital as your sunscreen and hat when it comes to ensuring you’re protected as you step into the great outdoors. They are a small precaution that can help make your next trip, a  trip of a lifetime. 

 

Book your malaria prevention consultation at Superdrug Clinics today and travel with confidence.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/malaria 

https://healthclinics.superdrug.com/services/malaria-tablets 

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/doxycycline/common-questions-about-doxycycline/ 

https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/themes/malaria