What are anti-malaria tablets?
Anti-malaria tablets are used to prevent an infection caused by the P. falciparum parasite. Anti-malaria tablets contain two active ingredients that have differing mechanisms, both working together to prevent malaria from developing in the human body.
What is the difference between the generic and branded versions of anti-malaria treatments?
Generic anti-malaria treatments are medically identical to branded anti-malaria treatments, as they contains the same active ingredients and work in the same way.
The primary difference between the two types of anti-malaria medications is the price. Branded anti-malaria tablets are more expensive than generic anti-malaria tablets, despite the fact that they are equally effective at treating malaria.
Generic anti-malaria medication is made by manufacturers who must demonstrate that their product offers the same quality, strength, stability and effectiveness as branded anti-malaria medication.
How do anti-malaria tablets work?
Anti-malaria tablets work in two distinct ways, due to the differing mechanisms of their two active ingredients.
The first active ingredient blocks a part of the mitochondria within the cells of the Plasmodium parasite that causes malaria. This disrupts the production of energy within the cells of the parasite, eliminating it from the body.
The second active ingredient is converted into its active form in the liver, which helps block parasitic DNA reproduction and growth. This stops the parasite that causes malaria from multiplying, preventing the malaria infection from spreading.
How do I take anti-malaria tablets?
Begin the treatment by taking one anti-malaria tablet daily, starting 1-2 days before entering the endemic area.
Continue taking one tablet each day throughout your stay, and for at least one week after returning to ensure any remaining malaria parasites are fully eliminated. You should take your daily dose with food to ensure maximum absorption into the body.
It is very important you do not stop taking this treatment early, as it takes 7 days post-return to ensure that any
malaria parasites in the blood are completely eradicated.