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Advantages and
Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Approximately 98%
effective. (May be used in areas of Chloroquine resistance)
- Convenient
dosage regimen (only 1 - 2 days prior to entry into malaria area,
each day while staying in the area and seven days after leaving)
- Mild side
effect profile which is of limited duration
- Safe for
children over 11 kg
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Interacts with
rifampicin, rifabutin, tetracycline and metoclopramide
Side Effects
Possible mild reactions:
- Loss of appetite,
nausea, and/or vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea
- Mouth ulcers
- Rash or itching
- Headache,
difficulty in sleeping, dizziness
- Tiredness and
loss of energy
- Muscular pain
Rare, more serious
reactions:
- Allergic
reactions
- Abnormal blood
tests of liver function
IMPORTANT: As with all types of anti-malaria
medication you should:
- Take the
medication as prescribed.
- Take the full
course (continue for 1 week after your return). Compliance is
essential because malaria parasites may remain viable for up to a month,
possibly longer
- Take medication
with or after food; washed down with a full glass of water.
More information on this and other anti-malaria medication
options is available during your pre-travel consultation with Travelvax.
Call 1300 360 164 for the location of the clinic nearest to you.
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