From the Guidelines
For an 8-day trip to Costa Rica, the recommended Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil) dosing regimen is one adult tablet (250 mg atovaquone/100 mg proguanil) taken once daily with food or milk, starting 1-2 days before entering the country and continuing for 7 days after leaving. However, the provided evidence does not directly address the dosing regimen for Malarone, as the study from 1 focuses on general guidelines for malaria prophylaxis, including the importance of compliance, starting chemoprophylaxis before departure, and the limited availability of proguanil in some areas. Given the lack of specific guidance from the provided study, the recommended dosing regimen is based on general medical knowledge and guidelines for Malarone use. Key points to consider when taking Malarone include:
- Taking the medication with food or milk to increase absorption and effectiveness
- Maintaining consistent blood levels by taking the medication at the same time each day
- Using additional protective measures like insect repellent, long sleeves/pants, and bed nets, as no antimalarial is 100% effective
- Consulting a healthcare provider if side effects like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain occur, but trying to continue the medication if possible to maintain protection.
From the FDA Drug Label
The daily dose should be taken at the same time each day with food or a milky drink. In the event of vomiting within 1 hour after dosing, a repeat dose should be taken Prevention of Malaria: Prophylactic treatment with atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride should be started 1 or 2 days before entering a malaria-endemic area and continued daily during the stay and for 7 days after return. Adults: One atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride tablet (adult strength = 250 mg atovaquone/100 mg proguanil hydrochloride) per day For an 8-day trip to Costa Rica, the recommended dosing regimen for Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil) is:
- Start taking the medication 1 or 2 days before entering Costa Rica
- Take one tablet (250 mg atovaquone/100 mg proguanil hydrochloride) per day during the stay
- Continue taking the medication for 7 days after return from Costa Rica 2
From the Research
Malarone Dosing Regimen
The recommended dosing regimen for Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil) for an 8-day trip to Costa Rica is as follows:
- Adults and children weighing 40 kg or more: 1 tablet (250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil) once daily 3
- Children weighing 11-39 kg: dosage based on body weight, once daily 3
Duration of Prophylaxis
Prophylaxis should be started 1-2 days before entering the malaria-endemic area and continued for 7 days after leaving the area 3
Efficacy and Safety
Malarone is highly effective against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, including drug-resistant strains, and is generally well tolerated by both adults and children 3, 4, 5
- The efficacy of Malarone for the prevention of P. falciparum malaria is estimated at 100% 3
- Common adverse events include headache and abdominal pain, which occur at a rate similar to that of placebo 3
Comparison with Other Antimalarial Agents
Malarone has been compared to other antimalarial agents, including mefloquine and doxycycline, in terms of efficacy and safety 6, 4, 5