Antimalarials
Private Service
Available Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm / Sat 9am - 1pm
Be Safe With Antimalarials
Our pharmacy offers a convenient antimalarial service, providing expert advice and access to essential medications to protect you from malaria when travelling to high-risk areas. Our trained pharmacists can guide you on the best antimalarial tablets based on your destination, travel duration, and medical history. We ensure you receive the right protection to help prevent malaria, so you can travel with confidence. Visit our pharmacy for a consultation and get the medication you need before your trip.
What is malaria?
Malaria is a serious and sometimes life-threatening disease caused by parasites of the Plasmodium species, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Once inside the body, the parasites multiply in the liver and then infect red blood cells, leading to symptoms such as high fever, chills, sweats, headaches, nausea, and muscle pain. If not treated promptly, malaria can cause severe complications like anaemia, organ failure, and even death.
Malaria is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and South America. Preventive measures, such as taking antimalarial medication, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets, are essential for travellers to high-risk areas. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for managing the disease and reducing its spread.
What are antimalarials?
Antimalarials are medications used to prevent and treat malaria, a serious disease transmitted by infected mosquito bites in certain parts of the world. These medicines work by attacking the malaria parasite at different stages of its life cycle, preventing it from multiplying and causing illness. Common antimalarial drugs include Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone), Doxycycline, and Mefloquine, each with different dosing schedules and suitability depending on the travel destination and individual health factors.
Taking antimalarials as prescribed is crucial for effective protection, and they are often used alongside other preventive measures such as insect repellent, mosquito nets, and wearing protective clothing. It’s important to consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional before travel to determine the most suitable antimalarial for your needs.
When should I take antimalarials?
You should start taking antimalarials before travelling to a high-risk area, as recommended for your specific medication. Some antimalarials, like Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone), should be taken one to two days before travel, while others, such as Doxycycline or Mefloquine, need to be started at least one to two weeks in advance. It’s important to continue taking them throughout your stay and for the required period after returning home to ensure full protection. Always follow your pharmacist’s or doctor’s advice on dosage and duration to effectively prevent malaria.
Symptoms of malaria
Malaria symptoms usually appear 7 to 30 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, though in some cases, they can take longer to develop. Common symptoms include high fever, chills, sweating, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, malaria can lead to complications such as confusion, seizures, breathing difficulties, and organ failure. If you experience these symptoms after travelling to a malaria-risk area, seek medical attention immediately, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Who can I speak to you?
You can speak to one of our trained pharmacists, who can provide expert advice on antimalarial medications and malaria prevention. They will help you choose the right medication based on your travel destination, medical history, and personal preferences. If you have any questions about side effects, dosage, or other travel health concerns, our pharmacy team is here to assist you. Visit us in-store or contact us for a consultation before your trip.