For preventing malaria, doctors often recommend antimalarials – especially Malarone. But can you get Malarone over the counter?
The short answer is no.
This article will cover your options to get Malarone – along with extra tips to avoid stockouts, delays, and excessive costs.
Intro to Malarone
Malarone, a combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil, is a highly effective antimalarial medication.
It works by inhibiting the reproduction of the malaria parasite in the red blood cells. This approach effectively prevents the disease if taken correctly.
- – Malarone is typically prescribed to individuals traveling to regions where malaria is prevalent.
- – These areas often include parts of Africa, South Asia, and Central/South America.
- – While also used as a treatment drug, it’s primarily used (and recommended) as a pre-malaria prevention drug.
- – For most travelers, the side effects are generally mild or non-existent.
Why is Malarone Prescription Only?
Malarone is not available over the counter due to several reasons:
1) It’s a medical-grade drug
While Malarone is generally safe, a physician is needed to determine if it’s right for you. The vast majority of travelers (going to medium and high-risk areas) are successfully prescribed.
2) Importance of correct dosage
The dosage of Malarone varies depending on factors such as age, weight, and overall health condition.
Overdosing or underdosing can lead to decreased effectiveness or increased risk of side effects.
Therefore, a medical professional must prescribe the right dose to ensure the drug’s efficacy and safety.
3) Requires professional medical attention
Self-diagnosis or self-medication could lead to potential health risks.
This is why Malarone is prescription-only and why it’s crucial to consult with a doctor before taking it.
How to Get a Prescription for Malarone
Getting a prescription for Malarone traditionally involved a primary care provider or travel clinic.
However, this process can be time-consuming, inconvenient and far more costly. This is where Runway Health comes in:
- – Runway is an online travel clinic that provides online consultations with US-licensed physicians.
- – This allows you to get a prescription for Malarone shipped straight to your door – without leaving your home.
- – The process is simple: you fill out a health questionnaire, consult with a doctor online, and if approved, your prescription is delivered to you.
- – Not only do you save time, but you also avoid consultation delays and potential stockouts at your local pharmacy.
Runway Health’s services are often cheaper than traditional in-person consultations, making it a great option for many travelers. Online consultations are only $30.
See price for online prescription with Runway →
FAQs about Malarone
Understanding Malarone is essential for anyone considering this antimalarial. Here are some more frequently asked questions to shed further light on this topic:
How fast can I have Malarone shipped and delivered to me?
Usually, it takes 3-5 days for Malarone to be shipped and delivered, once prescribed.
How long should I take Malarone?
The duration depends on your travel plans and doctor’s advice. Typically, you start taking it 2 days before traveling – continued daily during your stay – and for 7 days after leaving high-risk areas.
What should I do if I forget to take my daily dose of Malarone?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Avoiding Malaria (Beyond Taking Malarone)
Preventing malaria involves more than just taking Malarone. Here are additional measures you can take to protect yourself.
- – Wear appropriate clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks can help protect against mosquito bites.
- – EPA-registered insect repellents can deter mosquitoes and other biting insects – thereby reducing your exposure to malaria.
- – Stay in screened or air-conditioned areas: Mosquitoes that carry malaria are mostly active at night. Staying in screened or air-conditioned areas can help you avoid them.
- – Use bed nets: If you’re sleeping in an area where mosquitoes are prevalent, consider using a bed net with insecticide for protection.
Final Thoughts
While Malarone is an effective tool in the fight against malaria, it’s just one part of a comprehensive approach to disease prevention.
It’s crucial to remember that it’s a prescription-only medication due to its potency and potential side effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about Malarone (or malaria prevention in general).
To summarize:
- – Malarone is not available over the counter, but there are now cheaper and easier ways to get a prescription.
- – With the right precautions and Malarone usage, you can keep yourself safe and enjoy your travels.
- – Remember, prevention is always better than treatment, especially when it comes to diseases like malaria.
For more information, reach out to Runway Health for a $30 consultation. Safe travels!
