People planning trips to foreign countries, particularly the tropics, may take the brand-name medicine Malarone to help prevent malaria. Those who already have this disease, transmitted by the bite of the mosquito, may use the medication as treatment. Malarone combines proguanil and atovaquone, two forms of drugs known as antiprotozoals, MayoClinic.com reports. They work by killing the organisms within the red blood cells that cause the infection of malaria. Malarone may produce side effects.
Diarrhea
Malarone may cause diarrhea, according to Drugs.com. Diarrhea, known as loose stools, results from the disease of malaria itself, or it may occur when the person starts taking Malarone tablets to either prevent or treat malaria. Doctors expect diarrhea to be a mild side effect in patients taking Malarone. If the diarrhea is severe or does not subside as treatment continues, Drugs.com recommends consulting the doctor.
Pain
MayoClinic.com reports that pain is a side effect from taking Malarone. The pain is classified as non-serious and temporary. The person may experience pain in the abdomen without diarrhea, in the muscles or in the back while first taking the medication. Pain also may manifest in the form of headaches and mouth sores. These side effects typically end following the person's adjustment to Malarone. MayoClinic.com recommends consulting a doctor if the pain is severe or prolonged.
Flu-Like Syndrome
A flu-like syndrome may develop when taking Malarone. This involves symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, sneezing, coughing, a fever, bodily weakness and throat soreness. These symptoms often occur in a person just starting to use Malarone tablets, MayoClinic.com reports. Medical attention usually is not required unless symptoms are severe.
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