// Travel Medications

Malarone and Antimalarial Options at Our Medway Travel Clinic

There is no malaria vaccine for travellers, so the right antimalarial is a critical pre-travel decision. Book your appointment at our Chatham clinic.

Antimalarial Medication

Antimalarial options

Antimalarials from £0.80 to £3.50

Included

// How It Works

How to Get Your Antimalarial Medication at Our Medway Clinic

Your full itinerary and health history assessed by a qualified pharmacist, medication supplied the same day.

Step 01

Book Your Appointment

Book your appointment online; no GP referral needed.

Step 02

Malaria Risk Assessment

We’ll assess your trip and health to advise you.

Step 03

Your Antimalarial Medication

Get your medication same-day with clear, simple instructions.

Step 04

Travel With Confidence

Follow our easy guidance to travel safely and confidently.

// High-Risk Destinations

The Destinations Where You Cannot Afford to Skip Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present in over 90 countries, recommended antimalarial varies significantly by destination and region.

Nigeria

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline

Other vaccines recommended : Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Cholera, Rabies

Ghana

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline

Other vaccines recommended : Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies

Kenya

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline

Other vaccines recommended : Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies

Tanzania

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline

Other vaccines recommended : Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies

India

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline (region-dependent)

Other vaccines recommended : Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Hepatitis B

Indonesia

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline (area-dependent)

Other vaccines recommended : Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis

Thailand

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone (border areas only)

Other vaccines recommended : Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis

Myanmar

Recommended antimalarial : Malarone or Doxycycline

Other vaccines recommended : Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis

// Diseases Overview

What Makes Malaria So Dangerous and Why It Cannot Be Ignored

Malaria is a potentially fatal blood infection transmitted through infected mosquito bites at night.

How the Malaria Parasite Reaches the Human Body

Infected mosquitoes transmit Plasmodium parasites through nighttime bites. While some types cause severe illness, others can stay dormant in your liver, causing symptoms much later.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Watch for flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, or sweating, starting a week or more after a bite. If you’ve travelled to a risk area, seek urgent medical help

// Vaccination Guide

Antimalarial Medications We Supply at Our Medway Clinic

No single antimalarial suits every traveller, the right choice depends on multiple individual factors.

Doxycycline

A budget-friendly antibiotic option for longer trips. Take daily with food, starting 1-2 days before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after returning. Not for children under 12 or pregnant women.

Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil)

A popular daily tablet for most trips. Take it 1-2 days before travel until 7 days after returning. Not suitable for everyone, including those with certain health conditions or interacting medications.

Mefloquine (Lariam)

A weekly tablet option for those who can’t take others. Start 10 days before travel and continue for 4 weeks after. Not suitable for people with specific psychiatric or heart conditions.

Possible Side Effects: What to Expect

Malarone may cause mild nausea; Doxycycline can cause nausea and sun sensitivity. Mefloquine has more potential side effects, like vivid dreams, so we start it early to monitor how you feel.

// Eligibility

Finding the Right Antimalarial for Your Specific Trip

Your destination, trip length, health history, medications, and budget all influence the right antimalarial choice.

Recommended For

Travellers to endemic regions in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas
Expats and long-stay travellers (note 12-month limit for Malarone and Mefloquine)
Backpackers and adventure travellers crossing multiple risk zones
Families (weight-based paediatric dosing available for Atovaquone/Proguanil)
Those with prior malaria infections, as immunity is not guaranteed
Anyone seeking expert advice on destination-specific risks

Appointment Required For

Pregnant or breastfeeding women (restrictions apply to all options)
Severe renal impairment (Atovaquone/Proguanil unsuitable)
History of psychiatric illness (Mefloquine contraindicated)
Severe hepatic impairment (Doxycycline and Mefloquine contraindicated)
Users of warfarin, digoxin, rifampicin, or protease inhibitors (interaction risks)
Vivotif vaccine users (3-day gap needed before Doxycycline)

Always tell your pharmacist about any current medications, medical conditions, allergies, and mental health history before your appointment.

// Comparison

Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine: An Honest Side-by-Side Comparison

Each antimalarial has different start times, duration requirements, cost profiles, and suitability considerations.

Risk Group

Atovaquone/Proguanil (Generic)

Malarone

Doxycycline

Mefloquine (Lariam)

Start before travel

1 to 2 days

10 days (2 doses: Day -10 and Day -3)

Duration after return

7 days

4 weeks

Adult cost per tablet/capsule

£2.50

£3.50

£0.80

On request

Maximum continuous use

12 months

No defined limit

12 months

Best suited for

Most areas, shorter trips

Longer, budget-friendly trips

When other options fail

Key restrictions

Renal, pregnancy, nursing, drug interactions

Same as generic

Under 12s, hepatic, pregnancy, nursing, drug interactions

Psychiatric, cardiac, hepatic, pregnancy, nursing

Paediatric option

Yes (from 5kg)

No (12+ only)

Yes (weekly weight-based)

Not sure which to choose? Our clinician will recommend the right option for your specific trip at your appointment. Book online and we will handle the rest.

// Risk

The Travellers Who Are Most Exposed to Malaria Risk

Certain travellers face significantly higher malaria risk based on destination, immunity, and behaviour abroad.

Risk Group

Why They Are at Higher Risk

West & Central Africa travellers

Highest global burden of P. falciparum with year-round transmission.

Visiting friends/relatives

Higher mosquito exposure in local housing lacking aircon or nets.

Long-stay & expats

Prolonged time in endemic zones increases cumulative bite risk.

Pregnant women

Extreme risk of severe illness, miscarriage, or maternal death.

Young children

Vulnerable to rapid health decline due to limited immunity.

Former endemic residents

Acquired childhood immunity is lost after living away.

Remote backpackers

Increased habitat exposure and poor access to medical care.

// Travel Safety Tips

What Else You Can Do to Keep Malaria at Bay Beyond Your Medication

Antimalarial medication is your primary protection, bite prevention is equally critical alongside medication.

Bite Avoidance, Repellents, and Clothing

Apply 50% DEET or 20% picaridin to exposed skin from dusk
Wear long sleeves and trousers at night, especially in rural areas
Use permethrin spray on outer clothing for camping or extended exposure
Regularly re-apply repellent, particularly after swimming or sweating

Accommodation, Nets & Symptom Awareness

Use air-conditioning or well-screened rooms to prevent overnight bites
Sleep under a permethrin-treated bed net if screens are unavailable
Seek urgent medical help for fever or flu-like symptoms during or within 12 months of travel
Act immediately; P. falciparum malaria can become fatal within hours

// Meet our expert

Qualified Professionals You Can Rely On

Meet the pharmacist who gets you ready before you fly.

Mandeep Sandhu

Superintendent Pharmacist & Clinical Lead

Since qualifying as a pharmacist in 2006, Mandeep Sandhu has turned travel health into his life’s work. As an independent prescriber with expert NaTHNaC and Yellow Fever credentials, he focuses on giving you genuine peace of mind before you fly.

Mandeep is an avid traveler himself, so he knows that travel health isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” process. He rejects the generic checklist approach, preferring to sit down with you to discuss your unique plans. Whether you’re heading on a family holiday or a remote adventure, Mandeep provides the personal, professional care you deserve.

MPharm Qualified

A fully GPhC-registered pharmacist.

Independent Prescriber

Qualified to independently prescribe and provide travel medicines

Yellow Fever Accredited

Accredited Yellow Fever centre providing vaccinations and official ICVP documentation.

NaTHNaC Trained

Specialist travel health education following national UK standards

// Areas We Serve

Based in Medway, Covering the Whole of Kent

Located at 139 New Road, Chatham, our clinic serves patients across the Medway towns and Kent. If you need a private travel clinic in Kent with a full vaccine range and same-day availability, book online today.

// Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

Real experiences from patients who trusted our Medway travel clinic for their vaccinations and travel health advice.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 10 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Sunen Patel 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience at Medway Travel Clinic while getting everything sorted for my trip to South America. The clinic is modern, clean, and well-run, which really helped put me at ease. Booking was simple, and there were plenty of appointment slots to choose from, even at short notice. I was especially impressed that they had all the necessary vaccines in stock, so I could get everything done in one visit. Mandeep was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain each vaccine and what to expect, which made the whole process smooth and reassuring. Highly recommended for anyone planning overseas travel!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   T-Mobile T-Mobile 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent staff and service.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Usman Ali 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended for travel vaccines
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rachael Clifton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot fault this service.  The whole pharmacy team are very helpful and approachable. Mandeep, the pharmacist dealt with my travel queries and vaccinations.  I was very unsure as it was my first time going abroad but he talked me through everything and explained which vaccines I needed. The jabs didn't even hurt! He was amazing. A1 service. 100% recommend. Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sarfaraz Riaz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. First class service. Would recommend to try these guys out! Amazing service. Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Balraj 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Medway Travel Clinic made preparing for my trip so easy. The location is convenient, and I had no issues with parking – plenty of spaces available. I was able to book an appointment without any hassle, and there were lots of time slots to choose from. I went in for my yellow fever vaccination, and the pharmacist prescriber was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, offering great advice tailored to my destination. I felt completely at ease and well looked after. Highly recommend for travel health needs!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kitty Atwal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited Medway Travel Clinic for my rabies vaccine ahead of my trip to Thailand, and I couldn’t have asked for a better service. The clinic is in a really convenient location with easy parking, and booking an appointment was quick and hassle-free. The pharmacist prescriber was incredibly experienced and clearly very skilled at administering vaccines, the whole process was smooth and painless. They also took the time to explain everything in detail, which made me feel confident and well informed. I’d highly recommend Medway Travel Clinic to anyone preparing for travel.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Madeleine Mortimer 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cannot recommend Mandeep enough. He is knowledgeable, helpful, and put me at ease. I would definitely go to him in the future - his advice was in depth and his role as a pharmacist prescriber means he can offer more than other pharmacies.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Leanne Parkin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Came in yesterday for some travel vaccines. Mandeep the pharmacist was thorough and couldn’t have been more helpful. Would definitely recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gary Marchant 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. There is one pharmacy here, some very odd opening hours and long lunch break, some parking spaces behind at £2:40 minimum for first hour, if no spaces "walk the gauntlet" through Chatham High Street to get there!!

// Why Choose Us

Why Kent Travellers Come to Our Clinic

As travel specialists rather than a general GP surgery, we provide faster access and comprehensive advice in a single visit.

Same-week appointments

With no GP referral needed; walk in prepared, not turned away.

The full vaccine range

A full vaccine range is stocked on-site at all times; no ordering ahead or coming back.

Antimalarials and vaccines sorted

Antimalarials and vaccines sorted in one appointment; nothing left for a second visit.

Personalised advice

Personalised advice built around your specific trip destination, activities, and health history are all considered.

Emailed vaccination records

Emailed vaccination records are sent after every appointment; your health history is always documented and ready.

// FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a prescription for antimalarial tablets in the UK?

No. Antimalarials are supplied at Medway Travel Clinic via a private Patient Group Direction following a clinical appointment with our pharmacist.

How much do antimalarials cost at Medway Travel Clinic?

Adult generic Atovaquone/Proguanil is £2.50 per tablet (£1.50 paediatric), while Malarone is £3.50 (£2.00 paediatric). Doxycycline is £0.80 per capsule. Mefloquine prices are available on request.

Which antimalarial is best for sub-Saharan Africa?

Atovaquone/Proguanil and Doxycycline are effective against chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum in sub-Saharan Africa. Your clinician will recommend the best option based on your health and itinerary.

When should I start taking mefloquine before travelling?

Start 10 days before travel to monitor for side effects. Take the first dose 10 days before departure, the second 2-3 days before, then once weekly throughout and for 4 weeks after your trip.

Can I take antimalarials if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Current options have restrictions or are contraindicated. If pregnant or breastfeeding, please inform our pharmacist; a specialist referral may be necessary to identify a safe option.

Do children need antimalarials?

Yes. Paediatric Atovaquone/Proguanil is available for children from 5kg. Dosing for 5kg–11kg follows UKHSA guidance. Doxycycline is unsuitable for children under 12.

// Visit Us

Find Us: Your Local Travel Clinic in Medway

We are easy to find and conveniently located in central Chatham.

Contact Details

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday:

9AM–6:15 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

// Blog

Latest Travel Health Tips and Advice

// Get Protected Today

Get Your Malaria Medication in Medway Before You Fly

Booking takes a couple of minutes and same-day supply is regularly available. For mefloquine, you need to start 10 days before departure, so book as early as possible.