| Drug |
Usage |
Contraindication |
Adverse event |
Cost /Comment |
| Mefloquine |
Begin 1-2 weeks before travel to malarious areas Take weekly on the same day of the week while in the malarious areas Continue for 4 weeks after leaving the areas |
Allergic to mefloquine History of depression, generalized anxiety disorder, schizophrenia History of seizures History of cardiac conduction abnormalities Pregnant women (1st trimester) |
GI upset Sleep disturbance Mood disorder or psychosis (rare) |
Pediatric dose depending on the weight 150 NTD/tab There may be resistance in some Asian areas. |
| Doxycycline |
Begin 1-2 days before departure Take daily at the same time each day while in the malarious areas Continue for 4 weeks after leaving the areas |
Allergic to doxycycline Severe hepatic or renal impairment Pregnant women Children < 8 years of age |
GI upset Photosensitivity Vaginal candidiasis |
3 NTD/tab Potential benefits for preventing rickettsial infections and leptospirosis |
| Malarone (atovaquone/proquanil) |
Begin 1-2 days before travel to malarious areas Take daily at the same time each day while in the malarious areas Continue for 7 days after leaving the areas |
Allergic to malarone Severe renal impairment Pregnant or breastfeeding women Children < 11 kg |
GI upset Headache, dizziness Fewer side effects |
Pediatric dose depending on the weight 202 NTD/tab |
| Hydroxy- chloroquine |
Same as taking mefloquine |
Allergic to hydroxychloroquine Safe in pregnant women |
GI upset Hyperpigmentation Myalgia, headache Sleep disturbance |
9 NTD/tab Resistance in many areas in the world. |
