Malaria Pills Singapore

Medication	Malaria Pill
Purpose	Used to prevent and treat malaria infection in travellers to malaria-risk regions.
Recommended For	Individuals visiting or returning from areas where malaria transmission occurs, as advised by a doctor.
Price	From $1.09 to $15.59 per tablet, NETT and inclusive of GST (depending on medication type).
Appointment Options	Same-day appointment (subject to availability). Book via WhatsApp: 8893 3757 or email: hello@healthscreening.sg
Clinic Locations	Orchard: 1 Orchard Blvd #05-09 Camden Medical Centre, S248649 Tanjong Pagar: 72 Anson Rd #01-02 Anson House, S079911

What Are Malaria Pills?

Blister packs of malaria pills used to prevent or treat infection in travellers to endemic regions.

Malaria pills are prescribed medications designed to either prevent or treat malaria, a potentially serious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through bites from infected Anopheles mosquitoes.

These tablets are typically recommended for travellers heading to countries where malaria transmission remains active or seasonal, helping to significantly reduce the risk of infection during your stay.

Because malaria risk and parasite strains differ by region, the most suitable medication should be selected based on your travel itinerary and personal health condition after a consultation with a doctor.

When Should You Take Malaria Pills?

You should take malaria pills whenever you plan to visit an area where malaria transmission occurs, especially in tropical or subtropical climates. The need for preventive medication depends on factors such as your destination, duration of travel, and medical history.

Destination – Some countries have a higher risk of malaria than others, and within the same country, certain rural or forested areas may carry greater risk. Reference sources such as the CDC Yellow Book or local health authorities can help determine whether prophylaxis is required.
Length of stay – The longer you stay in endemic zones, the more opportunities mosquitoes have to bite and transmit infection.
Personal health – Conditions such as liver disease, pregnancy, or allergies may limit which medication you can safely take.

Always see your doctor before travelling, as they will first determine whether malaria or other preventive measures are necessary and then review your health, medications, and itinerary before recommending the most suitable prophylaxis.

How Do Malaria Pills Work?

Microscopic image showing Plasmodium parasites infecting red blood cells causing malaria in person.

Malaria pills work by disrupting the parasite’s development inside the human body. When an infected mosquito bites, the Plasmodium parasite enters the bloodstream and travels to the liver, where it multiplies before spreading to red blood cells. Antimalarial drugs target specific stages of this process, either destroying the parasite or halting its replication.

To be fully protected, the medication must be started before entering a malaria-endemic area, allowing the drug to reach steady levels in the bloodstream. The tablets are then continued throughout the trip and for a short period after returning home. This post-travel phase ensures that any remaining parasites in the body are cleared, reducing the likelihood of illness after your journey.

What Are Types of Malaria Pills?

Different malaria pills are available, and the appropriate choice depends on your travel location, duration, tolerance, and medical history. Each drug contains distinct active ingredients and dosing schedules, with potential side effects that vary from person to person.

Type of Malaria Pill	Description
Atovaquone–Proguanil	A once-daily combination tablet that helps both prevent and treat malaria. It is generally well tolerated and often preferred by travellers on shorter trips because of its simple dosing schedule.
Doxycycline	A daily antibiotic that protects against malaria by stopping the parasite from multiplying in the body. It is a widely available and cost-effective option for many destinations.
Mefloquine	A weekly tablet used for both prevention and treatment of malaria, making it practical for extended stays. It may suit travellers who prefer less frequent dosing.
Chloroquine	A medication effective only in areas where malaria parasites have not developed resistance. Its use today is limited to specific regions where sensitivity remains.

When Should You Take Malaria Pills?

Malaria tablets beside a glass of water on a table prepared for travel to malaria-endemic regions.

Malaria tablets must be taken at specific times before, during, and after travel for them to work effectively. The exact timing of when to start and stop depends on the medication prescribed, and starting too late or ending the course early can leave you unprotected.

Before travel – Begin taking the tablets 1 to 2 days before arrival in a malaria area. Some medicines, like mefloquine, must start at least a week before departure.
During travel – Take your dose consistently at the same time each day or week, depending on the prescribed schedule. Missing a dose may reduce protection.
After travel – Continue taking the medicine for the recommended period, which may range from 1 to 4 weeks, to kill any remaining parasites that might still be developing in your body.

It is important to follow the full course exactly as instructed by your doctor, even after you have left the risk area.

Are There Side Effects of Malaria Pills?

Malaria tablets, like most medications, may occasionally cause side effects, though many are mild and temporary. Individuals may respond differently depending on the specific drug taken.

Common side effects include:

Nausea, mild stomach upset, or vomiting, particularly if taken without food
Dizziness or light-headedness, especially with atovaquone-proguanil or mefloquine
Increased sensitivity to sunlight, commonly associated with doxycycline, making sunscreen and protective clothing important

Less frequent reactions may involve:

Mood changes, restlessness, or vivid dreams (occasionally linked to mefloquine)
Allergic reactions such as rashes or itching
Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of depression, which require immediate medical attention

If you experience discomfort that persists or worsens, consult a doctor promptly. They can adjust the dosage or recommend an alternative medication suited to your condition.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always speak to a qualified doctor before starting malaria medication or any travel-related treatment.

What Is the Cost of Malaria Pills?

At ATA Medical, we offer the following malaria medications, with prices as follows:

Medication	Price*
Consultation	From $49.05
Malarone (Atovaquone-Proguanil) Typical Dosage: 2 days + duration of travel + 7 days after returning (1 tab per day)	$15.59 per tab
Doxycycline Typical Dosage: 2 days + duration of travel + 28 days after returning (1 tab per day)	$1.09 per tab