Antimalarial
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Atovaquone/Proguanil (sold in Nigeria as Malanil or Lemal) is a combination antimalarial drug that works by attacking the malaria parasite at two different stages, killing it and stopping it from multiplying in your body.
Inhibits the mitochondrial electron transport chain of Plasmodium parasites by binding to cytochrome bc1 complex (atovaquone) and disrupting dihydrofolate reductase enzyme activity (proguanil), thereby preventing parasite DNA synthesis and causing death of erythrocytic and exoerythrocytic stages.
Malaria treatment, malaria prevention (for travellers or people in high-risk areas)
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but make sure you take it with food. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Always complete the full course even if you feel better, as stopping early can cause the malaria to come back. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not roadside sellers, as fake antimalarials are common in Nigeria and can be dangerous. If you vomit within 1 hour of taking a dose, take another dose with food.
Metoclopramide (commonly used for vomiting in Nigeria) can reduce how well this drug works, so avoid taking them together. Warfarin (blood thinner) effects may increase, so your doctor needs to monitor you closely. Tetracycline antibiotics can reduce the amount of atovaquone in your blood, making it less effective against malaria.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Atovaquone; with your other drugs?
This drug is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor decides the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Always consult your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the tablets in their original packaging and far away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.