Medications Used for Prophylaxis Prophylaxis should begin 1–2 days before travel to malaria-endemic areas; the medication should then be taken daily, at the same time each day, while in the malaria-endemic areas, and daily for 7 days after leaving the endemic areas (see Table 5-28 for recommended dosages).

In 2026, the timing for starting malaria chemoprophylaxis depends strictly on the specific medication prescribed by your travel clinic. If you are taking Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone), you typically start 1 to 2 days before entering the malaria-risk area. If you are prescribed Doxycycline or Mefloquine (Lariam), you must usually start 1 to 2 weeks prior to arrival to allow the drug to reach protective levels in your bloodstream and to monitor for potential side effects. Regardless of the type, you must continue taking the pills throughout your stay and for a specified period after leaving (usually 7 days for Malarone and 4 weeks for Doxycycline/Mefloquine). In 2026, it is highly recommended to consult a healthcare professional at least 4 to 6 weeks before your departure to ensure you have the correct prescription and have completed any other necessary vaccinations for your specific tropical destination.