Malarone
atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride · Tablet, Film Coated · Oral
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE MALARONE is an antimalarial indicated for:
• prophylaxis of Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria, including in areas where chloroquine resistance has been reported. ( 1.1 )
• treatment of acute, uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Prevention of Malaria MALARONE is indicated for the prophylaxis of Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria, including in areas where chloroquine resistance has been reported. 1.2 Treatment of Malaria MALARONE is indicated for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. MALARONE has been shown to be effective in regions where the drugs chloroquine, halofantrine, mefloquine, and amodiaquine may have unacceptable failure rates, presumably due to drug resistance.
Dosage and administration
The daily dose should be taken at the same time each day with food or a milky drink. In the event of vomiting within 1 hour after dosing, a repeat dose should be taken. MALARONE may be crushed and mixed with condensed milk just prior to administration to patients who may have difficulty swallowing tablets.
• MALARONE should be taken with food or a milky drink. Prophylaxis ( 2.1 ) :
• Start prophylaxis 1 or 2 days before entering a malaria‑endemic area and continue daily during the stay and for 7 days after return.
• Adults: One adult strength tablet per day.
• Pediatric Patients: Dosage based on body weight (see Table 1 ). Treatment ( 2.2 ) :
• Adults: Four adult strength tablets as a single daily dose for 3 days.
• Pediatric Patients: Dosage based on body weight (see Table 2 ). Renal Impairment ( 2.3 ) :
• Do not use for prophylaxis of malaria in patients with severe renal impairment.
• Use with caution for treatment of malaria in patients with severe renal impairment. 2.1 Prevention of Malaria Start prophylactic treatment with MALARONE 1 or 2 days before entering a malaria‑endemic area and continue daily during the stay and for 7 days after return. Adults One MALARONE tablet (adult strength = 250 mg atovaquone/100 mg proguanil hydrochloride) per day. Pediatric Patients The dosage for prevention of malaria in pediatric patients is based upon body weight ( Table 1 ). Table 1. Dosage for Prevention of Malaria in Pediatric Patients Weight (kg) Atovaquone/ Proguanil HCl Total Daily Dose Dosage Regimen 11-20 62.5 mg/25 mg 1 MALARONE pediatric tablet daily 21-30 125 mg/50 mg 2 MALARONE pediatric tablets as a single daily dose 31-40 187.5 mg/75 mg 3 MALARONE pediatric tablets as a single daily dose >40 250 mg/100 mg 1 MALARONE tablet (adult strength) as a single daily dose 2.2 Treatment of Acute Malaria Adults Four MALARONE tablets (adult strength; total daily dose 1 g atovaquone/400 mg proguanil hydrochloride) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days. Pediatric Patients The dosage for treatment of acute malaria in pediatric patients is based upon body weight ( Table 2 ). Table 2. Dosage for Treatment of Acute Malaria in Pediatric Patients Weight (kg) Atovaquone/ Proguanil HCl Total Daily Dose Dosage Regimen 5-8 125 mg/50 mg 2 MALARONE pediatric tablets daily for 3 consecutive days 9-10 187.5 mg/75 mg 3 MALARONE pediatric tablets daily for 3 consecutive days 11-20 250 mg/100 mg 1 MALARONE tablet (adult strength) daily for 3 consecutive days 21-30 500 mg/200 mg 2 MALARONE tablets (adult strength) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days 31-40 750 mg/300 mg 3 MALARONE tablets (adult strength) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days >40 1 g/400 mg 4 MALARONE tablets (adult strength) as a single daily dose for 3 consecutive days 2.3 Renal Impairment Do not use MALARONE for malaria prophylaxis in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Use with caution for the treatment of malaria in patients with severe renal impairment, only if the benefits of the 3-day treatment regimen outweigh the potential risks associated with increased drug exposure. No dosage adjustments are needed in patients with mild (creatinine clearance 50 to 80 mL/min) or moderate (creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min) renal impairment. [See Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ).]
Dosage forms and strengths
Each MALARONE tablet (adult strength) contains 250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil hydrochloride. MALARONE tablets are pink, film‑coated, round, biconvex tablets engraved with “GX CM3” on one side. Each MALARONE pediatric tablet contains 62.5 mg atovaquone and 25 mg proguanil hydrochloride. MALARONE pediatric tablets are pink, film‑coated, round, biconvex tablets engraved with “GX CG7” on one side.
• Tablets (adult strength): 250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil hydrochloride. ( 3 )
• Pediatric tablets: 62.5 mg atovaquone and 25 mg proguanil hydrochloride. ( 3 )
Contraindications
• MALARONE is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity reactions to atovaquone or proguanil hydrochloride or any component of the formulation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
• MALARONE is contraindicated for prophylaxis of P. falciparum malaria in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) because of pancytopenia in patients with severe renal impairment treated with proguanil [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .
• Known serious hypersensitivity reactions to atovaquone or proguanil hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. ( 4 )
• Prophylaxis of P. falciparum malaria in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min). ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
• Atovaquone absorption may be reduced in patients with diarrhea or vomiting. If used in patients who are vomiting, parasitemia should be closely monitored and the use of an antiemetic considered. In patients with severe or persistent diarrhea or vomiting, alternative antimalarial therapy may be required. ( 5.1 )
• In mixed P. falciparum and Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) infection, P. vivax relapse occurred commonly when patients were treated with MALARONE alone. ( 5.2 )
• In the event of recrudescent P. falciparum infections after treatment or prophylaxis failure, patients should be treated with a different blood schizonticide. ( 5.2 )
• Elevated liver laboratory tests and cases of hepatitis and hepatic failure requiring liver transplantation have been reported with prophylactic use. ( 5.3 )
• Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Cases of SCARs such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome (SJS) have been reported. SCARs can be life‑threatening or fatal. If symptoms or signs of SCARs develop, discontinue MALARONE immediately and institute appropriate therapy. ( 5.4 )
• MALARONE has not been evaluated for the treatment of cerebral malaria or other severe manifestations of complicated malaria. Patients with severe malaria are not candidates for oral therapy. ( 5.5 ) 5.1 Vomiting and Diarrhea Absorption of atovaquone may be reduced in patients with diarrhea or vomiting. If MALARONE is used in patients who are vomiting, parasitemia should be closely monitored and the use of an antiemetic considered. [See Dosage and Administration ( 2 ).] Vomiting occurred in up to 19% of pediatric patients given treatment doses of MALARONE. In the controlled clinical trials, 15.3% of adults received an antiemetic when they received atovaquone/proguanil and 98.3% of these patients were successfully treated. In patients with severe or persistent diarrhea or vomiting, alternative antimalarial therapy may be required. 5.2 Relapse of Infection In mixed P. falciparum and Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) infections, P. vivax parasite relapse occurred commonly when patients were treated with MALARONE alone. In the event of recrudescent P. falciparum infections after treatment with MALARONE or failure of chemoprophylaxis with MALARONE, patients should be treated with a different blood schizonticide. 5.3 Hepatotoxicity Elevated liver laboratory tests and cases of hepatitis and hepatic failure requiring liver transplantation have been reported with prophylactic use of MALARONE. 5.4 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions Cases of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), including Stevens ‑ Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and erythema multiforme (EM) have been reported in patients treated with MALARONE [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )]. SCARs can be life ‑ threatening or fatal. If symptoms or signs of SCARs develop, discontinue MALARONE immediately and institute appropriate therapy. Patients who have developed SCARs with the use of MALARONE must not receive MALARONE [see Contraindications ( 4 )]. 5.5 Severe or Complicated Malaria MALARONE has not been evaluated for the treatment of cerebral malaria or other severe manifestations of complicated malaria, including hyperparasitemia, pulmonary edema, or renal failure. Patients with severe malaria are not candidates for oral therapy.
Side effects
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are discussed in another section of the labeling:
• Vomiting and Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )].
• Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )].
• Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )].
• Prophylaxis: Common adverse reactions (≥4%) in adults were diarrhea, dreams, oral ulcers, and headache; these events occurred in a similar or lower proportion of subjects receiving MALARONE than an active comparator. Common adverse reactions (≥5%) in pediatric patients included abdominal pain, headache, cough, and vomiting. ( 6.1 )
• Treatment: Common adverse reactions (≥5%) in adolescents and adults were abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, asthenia, anorexia, and dizziness. Common adverse reactions (≥6%) in pediatric patients included vomiting, pruritus, and diarrhea. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact GlaxoSmithKline at 1-888-825-5249 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Because MALARONE contains atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride, the type and severity of adverse reactions associated with each of the compounds may be expected. The lower prophylactic doses of MALARONE were better tolerated than the higher treatment doses. Prophylaxis of P. falciparum Malaria In 3 clinical trials (2 of which were placebo‑controlled) 381 adults (mean age: 31 years) received MALARONE for the prophylaxis of malaria; the majority of adults were black (90%) and 79% were male. In a clinical trial for the prophylaxis of malaria, 125 pediatric patients (mean age: 9 years) received MALARONE; all subjects were black and 52% were male. Adverse experiences reported in adults and pediatric patients considered attributable to therapy occurred in similar proportions of subjects receiving MALARONE or placebo in all studies. Prophylaxis with MALARONE was discontinued prematurely due to a treatment‑related adverse experience in 3 of 381 (0.8%) adults and 0 of 125 pediatric patients. In a placebo‑controlled study of malaria prophylaxis with MALARONE involving 330 pediatric patients (aged 4 to 14 years) in Gabon, a malaria‑endemic area, the safety profile of MALARONE was consistent with that observed in the earlier prophylactic studies in adults and pediatric patients. The most common treatment‑emergent adverse events with MALARONE were abdominal pain (13%), headache (13%), and cough (10%). Abdominal pain (13% vs. 8%) and vomiting (5% vs. 3%) were reported more often with MALARONE than with placebo. No patient withdrew from the study due to an adverse experience with MALARONE. No routine laboratory data were obtained during this study. Non‑immune travelers visiting a malaria‑endemic area received MALARONE (n = 1,004) for prophylaxis of malaria in 2 active-controlled clinical trials. In one study (n = 493), the mean age of subjects was 33 years and 53% were male; 90% of subjects were white, 6% of subjects were black, and the remaining were of other racial/ethnic groups. In the other study (n = 511), the mean age of subjects was 36 years and 51% were female; the majority of subjects (97%) were white. Adverse experiences occurred in a similar or lower proportion of subjects receiving MALARONE than an active comparator ( Table 3 ). Fewer neuropsychiatric adverse experiences occurred in subjects who received MALARONE than mefloquine. Fewer gastrointestinal adverse experiences occurred in subjects receiving MALARONE than chloroquine/proguanil. Compared with active comparator drugs, subjects receiving MALARONE had fewer adverse experiences overall that were attributed to prophylactic therapy ( Table 3 ). Prophylaxis with MALARONE was discontinued prematurely due to a treatment‑related adverse experience in 7 of 1,004 travelers. Table 3. Adverse Reactions in Active-Controlled Clinical Trials of MALARONE for Prophylaxis of P. falciparum Malaria a Adverse experiences that started while receiving active study drug. b Mean duration of dosing based on recommended dosing regimens. Adverse Experience Percent of Subjects with Adverse Experiences a (Percent of Subjects with Adverse Experiences Attributable to Therapy) Study 1 Study 2 MALARONE n = 493 (28 days) b Mefloquine n = 483 (53 days) b MALARONE n = 511 (26 days) b Chloroquine plus Proguanil n = 511 (49 days) b Diarrhea 38 (8) 36 (7) 34 (5) 39 (7) Nausea 14 (3) 20 (8) 11 (2) 18 (7) Abdominal pain 17 (5) 16 (5) 14 (3) 22 (6) Headache 12 (4) 17 (7) 12 (4) 14 (4) Dreams 7 (7) 16 (14) 6 (4) 7 (3) Insomnia 5 (3) 16 (13) 4 (2) 5 (2) Fever 9 (<1) 11 (1) 8 (<1) 8 (<1) Dizziness 5 (2) 14 (9) 7 (3) 8 (4) Vomiting 8 (1) 10 (2) 8 (0) 14 (2) Oral ulcers 9 (6) 6 (4) 5 (4) 7 (5) Pruritus 4 (2) 5 (2) 3 (1) 2 (<1) Visual difficulties 2 (2) 5 (3) 3 (2) 3 (2) Depression <1 (<1) 5 (4) <1 (<1) 1 (<1) Anxiety 1 (<1) 5 (4) <1 (<1) 1 (<1) Any adverse experience 64 (30) 69 (42) 58 (22) 66 (28) Any neuropsychiatric event 20 (14) 37 (29) 16 (10) 20 (10) Any GI event 49 (16) 50 (19) 43 (12) 54 (20) In a third active‑controlled study, MALARONE (n = 110) was compared with chloroquine/proguanil (n = 111) for the prophylaxis of malaria in 221 non-immune pediatric patients (aged 2 to 17 years). The mean duration of exposure was 23 days for MALARONE, 46 days for chloroquine, and 43 days for proguanil, reflecting the different recommended dosage regimens for these products. Fewer patients treated with MALARONE reported abdominal pain (2% vs. 7%) or nausea (<1% vs. 7%) than children who received chloroquine/proguanil. Oral ulceration (2% vs. 2%), vivid dreams (2% vs. <1%), and blurred vision (0% vs.
Drug interactions
• Administration with rifampin or rifabutin is known to reduce atovaquone concentrations; concomitant use with MALARONE is not recommended. ( 7.1 )
• Proguanil may potentiate anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarin-based anticoagulants. Caution advised when initiating or withdrawing MALARONE in patients on anticoagulants; coagulation tests should be closely monitored. ( 7.2 )
• Tetracycline may reduce atovaquone concentrations; parasitemia should be closely monitored. ( 7.3 ) 7.1 Rifampin/Rifabutin Concomitant administration of rifampin or rifabutin is known to reduce atovaquone concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . The concomitant administration of MALARONE and rifampin or rifabutin is not recommended. 7.2 Anticoagulants Proguanil may potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarin-based anticoagulants. The mechanism of this potential drug interaction has not been established. Caution is advised when initiating or withdrawing malaria prophylaxis or treatment with MALARONE in patients on continuous treatment with coumarin-based anticoagulants. When these products are administered concomitantly, coagulation tests should be closely monitored. 7.3 Tetracycline Concomitant treatment with tetracycline has been associated with a reduction in plasma concentrations of atovaquone [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Parasitemia should be closely monitored in patients receiving tetracycline. 7.4 Metoclopramide While antiemetics may be indicated for patients receiving MALARONE, metoclopramide may reduce the bioavailability of atovaquone and should be used only if other antiemetics are not available [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 7.5 Indinavir Concomitant administration of atovaquone and indinavir did not result in any change in the steady‑state AUC and C max of indinavir but resulted in a decrease in the C trough of indinavir [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Caution should be exercised when prescribing atovaquone with indinavir due to the decrease in trough concentrations of indinavir.
Use in specific populations
Renal impairment: contraindicated for prophylaxis of P. falciparum malaria in patients with severe renal impairment. ( 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published literature and postmarketing experience with use of MALARONE in pregnant women are insufficient to identify a drug-associated risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes . The proguanil component of MALARONE acts to inhibit parasitic dihydrofolate reductase; however, pregnant women and females of reproductive potential should continue folate supplementation to prevent neural tube defects [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.4 )] . Pregnant women with malaria are at increased risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes (see Clinical Considerations). Atovaquone administered by oral gavage to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis was not associated with fetal malformations at plasma exposures approximately 7 times and equal to, respectively, the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. Proguanil administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis was not associated with embryo-fetal toxicity at maternally toxic plasma exposures approximately 0.07 and 0.8 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure for treatment of malaria based on AUC (see Data) . The combination of atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride given orally by gavage during the period of organogenesis was not associated with embryo-fetal developmental effects in pregnant rats or rabbits at atovaquone:proguanil hydrochloride doses of 50:20 mg/kg/day and 100:40 mg/kg/day, respectively (1.7 and 0.1 times and 0.3 and 0.5 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure for treatment of malaria). In a pre- and post-natal study with atovaquone and another pre-and post-natal study with proguanil, neither compound impaired the growth, development, or reproductive ability of first-generation offspring at maternal AUC exposures of approximately 7.3 and 0.04 times, respectively, the estimated human AUC exposure for treatment of malaria (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk: Malaria during pregnancy increases the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including maternal anemia, prematurity, spontaneous abortion, and stillbirth. Data Animal Data: Atovaquone: Atovaquone administered in oral doses of 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg/day during organogenesis (Gestation Day [GD] 6 to GD15) in pregnant rats did not cause maternal or embryo-fetal toxicity at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day corresponding to maternal plasma exposures up to 7.3 times the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. In pregnant rabbits, atovaquone administered in oral doses of 300, 600, and 1,200 mg/kg/day by gavage during organogenesis (GD6 to GD18) was associated with decreased fetal body length at a maternally toxic dose of 1,200 mg/kg/day corresponding to plasma exposures that were approximately 1.3 times the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria based on AUC. In a pre- and post-natal study in rats, atovaquone administered in oral doses of 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg/day from GD15 until Lactation Day (LD) 20 did not impair the growth or developmental effects in first-generation offspring at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day corresponding to AUC exposures of approximately 7.3 times the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria. Atovaquone crossed the placenta and was present in fetal rat and rabbit tissue. Proguanil: Proguanil administered orally to pregnant rats during organogenesis (GD6 to GD17) was not associated with fetal malformations, but increased ureter variations at a maternally toxic dose of 20 mg/kg/day corresponding to a plasma concentration approximately equal to 0.07 times the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. Proguanil given orally by gavage at a maternally toxic dose of 40 mg/kg/day to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis (GD6 to GD20) did not produce adverse embryo-fetal effects at a plasma concentration up to 0.8 times the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. In a pre- and post-natal study in female rats, proguanil hydrochloride administered in oral doses of 4, 8, or 16 mg/kg/day from GD6 until LD20 did not impair the growth, development, or reproductive ability of first-generation offspring or the survivability of second generation offspring at doses up to 16 mg/kg/day (0.04 times the average human exposure based on AUC). Pre- and post-natal studies of proguanil in animals at exposures similar to or greater than those observed in humans have not been conducted. Atovaquone and Proguanil: The combination of atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride administered orally to pregnant rats in atovaquone:proguanil hydrochloride doses of 12.5:5, 25:10, and 50:20 mg/kg/day during organogenesis (GD6 to GD17) did not produce maternal toxicity or adverse embryo-fetal developmental effects with doses up to 50:20 mg/kg/day corresponding to plasma concentrations up to 1.7 and 0.1 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria based on AUC.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published literature and postmarketing experience with use of MALARONE in pregnant women are insufficient to identify a drug-associated risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes . The proguanil component of MALARONE acts to inhibit parasitic dihydrofolate reductase; however, pregnant women and females of reproductive potential should continue folate supplementation to prevent neural tube defects [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.4 )] . Pregnant women with malaria are at increased risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes (see Clinical Considerations). Atovaquone administered by oral gavage to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis was not associated with fetal malformations at plasma exposures approximately 7 times and equal to, respectively, the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. Proguanil administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis was not associated with embryo-fetal toxicity at maternally toxic plasma exposures approximately 0.07 and 0.8 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure for treatment of malaria based on AUC (see Data) . The combination of atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride given orally by gavage during the period of organogenesis was not associated with embryo-fetal developmental effects in pregnant rats or rabbits at atovaquone:proguanil hydrochloride doses of 50:20 mg/kg/day and 100:40 mg/kg/day, respectively (1.7 and 0.1 times and 0.3 and 0.5 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure for treatment of malaria). In a pre- and post-natal study with atovaquone and another pre-and post-natal study with proguanil, neither compound impaired the growth, development, or reproductive ability of first-generation offspring at maternal AUC exposures of approximately 7.3 and 0.04 times, respectively, the estimated human AUC exposure for treatment of malaria (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk: Malaria during pregnancy increases the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including maternal anemia, prematurity, spontaneous abortion, and stillbirth. Data Animal Data: Atovaquone: Atovaquone administered in oral doses of 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg/day during organogenesis (Gestation Day [GD] 6 to GD15) in pregnant rats did not cause maternal or embryo-fetal toxicity at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day corresponding to maternal plasma exposures up to 7.3 times the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. In pregnant rabbits, atovaquone administered in oral doses of 300, 600, and 1,200 mg/kg/day by gavage during organogenesis (GD6 to GD18) was associated with decreased fetal body length at a maternally toxic dose of 1,200 mg/kg/day corresponding to plasma exposures that were approximately 1.3 times the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria based on AUC. In a pre- and post-natal study in rats, atovaquone administered in oral doses of 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg/day from GD15 until Lactation Day (LD) 20 did not impair the growth or developmental effects in first-generation offspring at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day corresponding to AUC exposures of approximately 7.3 times the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria. Atovaquone crossed the placenta and was present in fetal rat and rabbit tissue. Proguanil: Proguanil administered orally to pregnant rats during organogenesis (GD6 to GD17) was not associated with fetal malformations, but increased ureter variations at a maternally toxic dose of 20 mg/kg/day corresponding to a plasma concentration approximately equal to 0.07 times the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. Proguanil given orally by gavage at a maternally toxic dose of 40 mg/kg/day to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis (GD6 to GD20) did not produce adverse embryo-fetal effects at a plasma concentration up to 0.8 times the estimated human exposure for the treatment of malaria based on AUC. In a pre- and post-natal study in female rats, proguanil hydrochloride administered in oral doses of 4, 8, or 16 mg/kg/day from GD6 until LD20 did not impair the growth, development, or reproductive ability of first-generation offspring or the survivability of second generation offspring at doses up to 16 mg/kg/day (0.04 times the average human exposure based on AUC). Pre- and post-natal studies of proguanil in animals at exposures similar to or greater than those observed in humans have not been conducted. Atovaquone and Proguanil: The combination of atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride administered orally to pregnant rats in atovaquone:proguanil hydrochloride doses of 12.5:5, 25:10, and 50:20 mg/kg/day during organogenesis (GD6 to GD17) did not produce maternal toxicity or adverse embryo-fetal developmental effects with doses up to 50:20 mg/kg/day corresponding to plasma concentrations up to 1.7 and 0.1 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria based on AUC. In pregnant rabbits, the combination of atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride administered orally in atovaquone:proguanil hydrochloride doses of 25:10, 50:20, or 100:40 mg/kg/day during organogenesis (GD6 to GD20) did not produce adverse embryo-fetal developmental effects at a maternally toxic dose of 100:40 mg/kg/day corresponding to plasma concentrations of approximately 0.3 and 0.5 times, respectively, the estimated human exposure during treatment of malaria based on AUC.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Prophylaxis of Malaria Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients who weigh less than 11 kg. The efficacy and safety of MALARONE have been established for the prophylaxis of malaria in controlled trials involving pediatric patients weighing 11 kg or more [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . Treatment of Malaria Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients who weigh less than 5 kg. The efficacy and safety of MALARONE for the treatment of malaria have been established in controlled trials involving pediatric patients weighing 5 kg or more [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] .
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical trials of MALARONE did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 years and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, the higher systemic exposure to cycloguanil, and the greater frequency of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. [See Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ).]
Overdosage
There is no information on overdoses of MALARONE substantially higher than the doses recommended for treatment. There is no known antidote for atovaquone, and it is currently unknown if atovaquone is dialyzable. Overdoses up to 31,500 mg of atovaquone have been reported. In one such patient who also took an unspecified dose of dapsone, methemoglobinemia occurred. Rash has also been reported after overdose. Overdoses of proguanil hydrochloride as large as 1,500 mg have been followed by complete recovery, and doses as high as 700 mg twice daily have been taken for over 2 weeks without serious toxicity. Adverse experiences occasionally associated with proguanil hydrochloride doses of 100 to 200 mg/day, such as epigastric discomfort and vomiting, would be likely to occur with overdose. There are also reports of reversible hair loss and scaling of the skin on the palms and/or soles, reversible aphthous ulceration, and hematologic side effects.
Description
(atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride) tablets (adult strength) and MALARONE (atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride) pediatric tablets, for oral administration, contain a fixed‑dose combination of the antimalarial agents atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride. The chemical name of atovaquone is trans ‑2‑[4‑(4‑chlorophenyl) cyclohexyl]‑3‑hydroxy‑1,4‑naphthalenedione. Atovaquone is a yellow crystalline solid that is practically insoluble in water. It has a molecular weight of 366.84 and the molecular formula C 22 H 19 ClO 3 . The compound has the following structural formula: The chemical name of proguanil hydrochloride is 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-isopropyl-biguanide hydrochloride. Proguanil hydrochloride is a white crystalline solid that is sparingly soluble in water. It has a molecular weight of 290.22 and the molecular formula C 11 H 16 ClN 5
• HCl. The compound has the following structural formula: Each MALARONE tablet (adult strength) contains 250 mg of atovaquone and 100 mg of proguanil hydrochloride (equivalent to 87.4 mg of proguanil). Each MALARONE pediatric tablet contains 62.5 mg of atovaquone and 25 mg of proguanil hydrochloride (equivalent to 21.9 mg of proguanil). The inactive ingredients in both tablets are low‑substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, poloxamer 188, povidone K30, and sodium starch glycolate. The tablet coating contains hypromellose, polyethylene glycol 400, polyethylene glycol 8000, red iron oxide, and titanium dioxide. Atovaquone chemical structure Proguanil hydrochloride chemical structure
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action MALARONE, a fixed-dose combination of atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride, is an antimalarial agent [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )] .
How supplied
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING MALARONE tablets, containing 250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil hydrochloride.
• Bottle of 100 tablets with child-resistant closure (NDC 0173-0675-01).
• Unit Dose Pack of 24 tablets with child-resistant lid foil (NDC 0173-0675-02). MALARONE pediatric tablets, containing 62.5 mg atovaquone and 25 mg proguanil hydrochloride.
• Bottle of 100 tablets with child-resistant closure (NDC 0173-0676-01). Storage Conditions Store at 25°C (77°F). Temperature excursions are permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) (see USP Controlled Room Temperature).
Patient information
Important Administration Instructions
• Advise patients to take MALARONE at the same time each day with food or a milky drink [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )].
• Advise patients to take a repeat dose of MALARONE if vomiting occurs within 1 hour after dosing [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] .
• Advise patients to take a dose as soon as possible if a dose is missed, then return to their normal dosing schedule. However, if a dose is skipped, the patient should not double the next dose. Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs) Advise patients about the signs and symptoms of serious skin manifestations. Instruct patients to stop taking MALARONE immediately and promptly report the first signs or symptoms of skin rash, mucosal lesions, or any other sign of hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . Hepatotoxicity Elevated liver laboratory tests and cases of hepatitis and hepatic failure requiring liver transplantation have been reported with prophylactic use of MALARONE [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . Advise patients to immediately report symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or itching. Trademark is owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies. Distributed by: GlaxoSmithKline Durham, NC 27701 ©2026 GSK group of companies or its licensor. MLR:13PI
Label text from the FDA structured product label by GlaxoSmithKline LLC (revised Jun 10, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Atovaquone in 2 products
- Proguanil Hydrochloride in 2 products
Malarone NDC products (2)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0173-0675 | Atovaquone 250 mg/1; Proguanil Hydrochloride 100 mg/1 Tablet, Film Coated | GlaxoSmithKline LLC | NDA |
| 0173-0676 | Atovaquone 62.5 mg/1; Proguanil Hydrochloride 25 mg/1 Tablet, Film Coated | GlaxoSmithKline LLC | NDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Malarone used for?
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE MALARONE is an antimalarial indicated for: • prophylaxis of Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria, including in areas where chloroquine resistance has been reported. ( 1.1 ) • treatment of acute, uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Prevention of Malaria MALARONE is indicated for the prophylaxis of Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria,…
What are the side effects of Malarone?
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are discussed in another section of the labeling: • Vomiting and Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )]. • Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. • Prophylaxis: Common adverse reactions (≥4%) in adults were diarrhea, dreams, oral ulcers, and… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Malarone?
Malarone is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including GlaxoSmithKline LLC.