At Eltham Pharmacy, we regularly support travellers preparing for trips to destinations where malaria is a risk. One of the most common questions we are asked is when malaria tablets should be started before leaving the UK. Timing is crucial, as starting too late or stopping too early can significantly reduce protection. This timeline-based guide explains how malaria tablets in the UK are taken, what happens after you return and what to do if doses are missed. If you need personalised advice, get in touch with us or book a consultation at our London travel clinic.
Why Timing Matters With Malaria Tablets
Malaria tablets work by preventing the malaria parasite from developing in the bloodstream. To be effective, the medication needs to be present in your body before exposure and for a period after you leave the risk area.
Starting at the correct time helps to:
- –> Ensure adequate protection before entering a malaria risk zone
- –> Identify side effects early while still in the UK
- –> Reduce the risk of treatment failure
A travel health consultation allows your pharmacist to recommend the most appropriate option based on your destination and medical history. Book now if you are unsure which tablets are right for your trip.
When To Start Malaria Tablets Before You Travel
The start date for malaria tablets in the UK depends on the type prescribed. Different medications have different schedules, which is why professional advice is essential.
- Some malaria tablets are started one to two days before travel
- Others need to be started one week before departure
Starting earlier allows time to check tolerance. If side effects occur, an alternative may still be arranged before you fly.
Key points to remember:
- –> Never wait until the day you travel to start tablets unless advised
- –> Follow the exact start date given during your consultation
- –> Do not change the schedule without professional advice
At Eltham Pharmacy, we ensure you understand exactly when to begin treatment as part of our London travel clinic service.
Taking Malaria Tablets During Your Trip
Once you arrive in a malaria risk area, it is vital to continue taking your tablets exactly as prescribed.
During travel, you should:
- –> Take tablets at the same time each day or week
- –> Continue even if you do not see mosquitoes
- –> Use bite prevention alongside tablets, such as repellents and nets
Malaria risk can vary by region and season, but missing doses during your trip increases the chance of infection. If you need support while travelling, contact us before you leave so you feel confident managing your medication.
How Long To Take Malaria Tablets After Returning To The UK
Many travellers are surprised to learn that malaria tablets must be continued after leaving the risk area. This is because the malaria parasite can remain in the body for a period before causing symptoms.
Depending on the medication, tablets are usually continued for:
- –> One week after leaving the malaria risk area, or
- –> Four weeks after returning to the UK
Stopping early is a common mistake and can leave you unprotected. Completing the full course is just as important as starting on time. If you are unsure when to stop, contact us for clarification.
What Happens If You Miss A Dose?
Missing a dose of malaria tablets can reduce their effectiveness, but what to do next depends on when the dose was missed.
If you miss a dose:
- Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next dose
- Do not double up doses unless advised
- Continue with the regular schedule afterwards
If multiple doses are missed or if you are unsure what to do, seek advice as soon as possible. A pharmacist can advise whether additional precautions are needed. Book now to discuss any concerns before or after your trip.
Symptoms After Travel And When To Seek Help
Even when malaria tablets in the UK are taken correctly, no prevention method is 100 percent effective. Symptoms can appear weeks or even months after returning.
Watch for:
- –> Fever or flu-like symptoms
- –> Chills, sweating or headaches
- –> Feeling unwell without a clear cause
If you develop symptoms after travel to a malaria risk area, seek medical advice immediately and mention your travel history. Do not assume malaria tablets guarantee full protection.
Why A Travel Consultation Is Essential
Choosing the right malaria tablets and timing them correctly requires professional assessment. Factors such as destination, length of stay, medical history and other medications all matter.
A consultation at a London travel clinic ensures:
- –> The correct tablets are prescribed
- –> Clear instructions are provided
- –> You understand start dates and duration
At Eltham Pharmacy, we take time to explain your schedule clearly so you can travel with confidence. We are also on hand to advise if you need any other travel vaccines for your destination. For example, for malaria risk destinations, you may also need yellow fever or rabies vaccines.
Plan Ahead For Safe Travel
Preparing for malaria prevention should be part of your travel planning, not a last-minute task. Starting early gives you the best chance of staying protected and avoiding complications.
If you are travelling soon and need advice on malaria tablets in the UK, contact us today or book now for a consultation at Eltham Pharmacy. Our London travel clinic is here to support you before, during and after your trip.
This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
