If you’re heading to a malaria-risk destination, getting anti-malaria tablets is one of the most important steps in protecting your health. In this guide, we explain everything UK travellers need to know about accessing malaria medication: where to get it, what types are available, and what it costs.

If you’re travelling soon, you can get anti-malaria tablets in Preston with a quick consultation and same-day options.

Table of Contents

Why You Need Malaria Tablets

Malaria is a serious disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, transmitted through mosquito bites. It can lead to severe illness or even death if untreated. UK health authorities strongly recommend taking malaria prophylaxis (preventive medication) when travelling to high-risk areas, especially in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America.

Malaria tablets reduce your risk of infection by killing the parasite in your bloodstream. They must be taken before, during, and after your trip as prescribed.

NHS vs Private Clinics: What’s the Difference?

NHS Travel Health Services

The NHS does not routinely fund malaria tablets.
Some GP surgeries and NHS travel clinics offer malaria prescriptions, but you will usually need to pay privately.
You may be charged a fee for the consultation and the medication. However MedCare offers Free travel Consulations at no cost.

Private Travel Clinics

Private clinics like MedCare Health Clinic in Preston provide convenient, fast access to malaria prescriptions. Services include: (Explore all options in our Anti-Malaria Category)

Malaria risk assessment by qualified professionals
Personalised tablet recommendations based on destination and medical history
On-site or next-day access to tablets like Malarone, Doxycycline, or Mefloquine

Book a consultation at MedCare Health Clinic

Medcare Online Pharmacy

You can always obtain malaria tablets online through our UK-registered pharmacy following an online health questionnaire. This is suitable for people who:

Know where they are travelling
Do not need in-person assessment
Prefer fast home delivery

Prescription Options and Tablet Types

The main anti-malarial tablets available in the UK include:

1. Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)

Effective, with few side effects
Taken daily
Start 1–2 days before travel and continue for 7 days after return

2. Doxycycline

Also used for acne and other infections
Taken daily
Start 1–2 days before travel and continue for 28 days after return
Not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women

3. Mefloquine (Lariam)

Taken weekly
Start 2–3 weeks before travel and continue for 4 weeks after return
May cause vivid dreams, mood changes, or dizziness in some people

How Much Do Malaria Tablets Cost?

Medication	Typical Price Range (per trip)
Atovaquone/Proguanil	£30 – £60
Doxycycline	£15 – £30
Mefloquine	£5 – £50

Prices may vary depending on dosage, duration, and provider. MedCare Health Clinic offers competitive pricing and Free consultation and supply in one package. (Explore all options in our Anti-Malaria Category)

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Malaria Tablets

Check Malaria Risk: Use the NHS Fit for Travel site to assess whether your destination is malaria-risk.
Book a Travel Health Appointment: Ideally 4–6 weeks before departure.
Receive Risk Assessment: Discuss your health history, travel plan, and any previous reactions to medicines.
Get Your Prescription: Medcare Travel Clinic and Pharmacy
Follow Dosage Instructions Carefully: Take your tablets as directed before, during, and after your trip.

FAQs

Do I need a prescription for malaria tablets?

Yes, in the UK, all anti-malaria tablets are prescription-only medicines.

Can I get malaria tablets over the counter?

No. A consultation is required, even for online orders.

Can I get tablets at the airport?

NOT all airport pharmacies offer emergency supplies, but it is strongly advised to arrange your prescription well in advance.

When should I start taking malaria tablets?

It depends on the type. Most need to be started 1–2 days before travel, but some require up to 2–3 weeks of lead time.

Get Protected with MedCare Health Clinic (Explore all options in our Anti-Malaria Category)

At MedCare Health Clinic in Preston, we provide: (Explore all options in our Anti-Malaria Category)

Fast-track travel consultations
Access to NHS and private prescription services
Anti-malaria tablets tailored to your destination

Sources & References:

NHS Fit for Travel: https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/
NICE Guidelines: https://www.nice.org.uk/
WHO Malaria Facts: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/malaria