Atovaquone-Proguanil
Malarone is a brand-name antimalarial medication combining atovaquone and proguanil. It is used for both the prevention and treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria, one of the most dangerous forms of the disease. This medication is commonly prescribed for travelers visiting regions where malaria is endemic.
Malarone is an antimalarial drug used to prevent and treat Plasmodium falciparum malaria in travelers to endemic regions.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 153767
- Generic
- Malarone
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Malarone is indicated for the prophylaxis (prevention) and treatment of acute, uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. It is often recommended for travelers to areas with chloroquine-resistant or mefloquine-resistant malaria.
The combination of atovaquone and proguanil works synergistically against the malaria parasite at multiple stages of its life cycle. Atovaquone inhibits parasite mitochondrial electron transport, while proguanil's metabolite cycloguanil interferes with parasite DNA synthesis.
Malarone should be started 1-2 days before travel to a malaria-endemic area and continued for 7 days after returning. Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and headache. It is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment and is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless essential. Patients should complete the full course of treatment even if feeling better.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy