What is Laveran (Proguanil) used for?

Laveran (Proguanil) is a type of prophylactic drug used to prevent malaria, a disease which is passed to humans via mosquitoes infected with the malaria parasite. If you are travelling to a country affected by malaria, your physician may prescribe Laveran (Proguanil) to you. This medication works by preventing the parasite from reproducing once it has entered the red blood cells, thereby preventing malaria attacks. It may sometimes be given together with another medicine in order to prevent malaria.

How should I use Laveran (Proguanil)?

It is best to take Laveran (Proguanil) one week before travelling, however if this is not possible it must be taken at least 24 hours before travelling in order to be effective at all. Tablets should be taken orally, usually after a meal. Adults are usually prescribed 100mg, to be taken once per day. You need to continue taking this medication for 6 weeks after you have left the at-risk country as symptoms of the virus may sometimes take time to surface.

What are the side effects of Laveran (Proguanil)?

All side effects should be reported to your physician promptly. Some side effects which have been reported by patients taking Laveran (Proguanil) include:

• Vomiting or abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Mouth ulcers
• Temporary hair loss
• Decreased appetite

Please Note

Patients who experience flu-like symptoms or fever during their travels or up to a year afterwards, should seek medical attention and inform their physician of their travel history.

Pregnant women may be advised by their physician to avoid travelling areas affected by malaria altogether.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Laveran (Proguanil). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallow.