At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Antimalarial

02 Generic

No

03 Active ingredient

Atovaquone and Proguanil Hydrochloride

04 Effective within

Start taking 1-2 days before entering a malaria-endemic area, continue during stay, and 7 days after leaving

05 Works by

Preventing malaria by killing the malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum)

06 Side effects

Headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness, insomnia, depression, fever, rash, cough, pruritus (itching)

Medication details

Description

Maloff Protect Tablets

Maloff Protect is used to prevent malaria in travellers. Its formula contains atovaquone and proguanil, which work together to stop the malaria parasite taking hold. The parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, and Maloff Protect helps eliminate it before an infection can establish.

How it works

The two ingredients attack different steps in the parasite's survival, and the combination makes resistance far less likely. Because the medicine acts on the parasite in the liver as well as in the bloodstream, the course taken after returning home is shorter than with some other antimalarials. It prevents malaria taking hold rather than repelling mosquitoes, so bite avoidance is still needed.

How to use it

Take the tablets as directed on the pack, starting before you travel, continuing daily while you are in the malarial area and completing the course after you return. Take them at the same time each day with food or a milky drink, which improves absorption. If you are sick within an hour of a dose, take another. Do not stop the post travel course early.

Who it is for

It is for adults travelling to areas where malaria is a risk. It is not intended for children or teenagers unless a doctor has recommended it, and it is not suitable for anyone with severe kidney problems. Check with a pharmacist about pregnancy or breastfeeding and about any other medicines you take.

Safety and when to get advice

Nausea, headache, abdominal pain and vivid dreams are among the reported effects and are usually mild. Check the specific malaria risk and recommended tablet for your destination before travelling, since the right choice varies by country and region. Seek urgent medical help for a fever during travel or in the weeks and months after returning, and tell the clinician where you have been. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

Is it right for every destination?
No. Recommended antimalarials vary by country and region, so check before you travel.

Can children take it?
Not unless a doctor has recommended it for them.

Do I still need repellent and nets?
Yes. No tablet is fully protective, so bite avoidance remains essential.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

For optimal protection, it is of paramount importance to adhere diligently to the directions provided by your esteemed healthcare provider. In the adult population, the regimen entails commencing the administration of Maloff Protect one to two days before embarking on a journey to an area characterized by the presence of malaria. This administration should persist daily throughout the duration of your stay within the malaria-endemic region and continue for an additional seven days upon your return to a malaria-free zone. The unwavering completion of the entire treatment course is of utmost significance in ensuring comprehensive safeguarding against malaria.

Ingredients

Each tablet of Maloff Protect encapsulates the formidable combination of 250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil hydrochloride. These active components work in unison to exert a potent antimalarial effect. Complementing this potent formulation are auxiliary ingredients including Poloxamer 188, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Low-substituted Hydroxypropyl Cellulose, Povidone K30, Sodium Starch Glycolate Type A, Silica Colloidal anhydrous, Magnesium Stearate, Hypromellose, Titanium Dioxide (E171), Iron Oxide Red (E172), Macrogol 400, and Macrogol 8000.

Side Effects

While Maloff Protect is generally well-tolerated, it is prudent to be aware of potential side effects. Commonly encountered side effects include headaches, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, dizziness, insomnia, depression, fever, rash, cough, and pruritus (itching). It is imperative to promptly seek advice from your healthcare provider should any adverse effects arise.

Warnings

Prior to initiating the use of Maloff Protect, certain precautions and contraindications merit consideration. Individuals with known allergies to the constituents of this medication, kidney disease, or liver disease should refrain from its use. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, individuals under 18 years of age, or those weighing less than 40 kg are advised to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on this regimen. It is paramount to abstain from alcohol consumption during the course of Maloff Protect.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on Aug 24, 2023, 3:30 pm

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

How does Maloff Protect work?

Maloff Protect exerts its antimalarial efficacy by selectively eliminating the malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) present in the bloodstream, thereby mitigating the risk of malaria infection.

Who can take Maloff Protect?

Maloff Protect is intended for use by adults venturing into regions prone to malaria. It is not indicated for pediatric or adolescent populations, except under the explicit prescription of a qualified medical practitioner.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Maloff Protect?

Prudent medical advice dictates abstaining from alcohol consumption while undergoing treatment with Maloff Protect. Individualized guidance from a healthcare provider is recommended.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take Maloff Protect?

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are advised to consult their healthcare provider before embarking on a Maloff Protect regimen, as the appropriateness of usage necessitates careful evaluation of individual circumstances.

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