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Malaria tablets - help

2 replies

SamMarie · 06/05/2011 17:34

Hi I'm 15 weeks pregnant and am off on hols to Dominican Republic next Friday. Did all the research and decided it was safe as virtually no cases of malaria in years in the area I'm visiting, although thought it would be best to take malaria tablets as a precaution. Went and got the right tablets yesterday (Chloroquine, which after loads of research looked completely safe to take in pregnancy and was recommended for Dominican Republic), but one of the pharmacists said to just double check with the GP (the other pharmacist said he wouldn't have bothered giving this advice). I need to start taking them today to be completely covered. So like a good little girl I called the GP today to ask the question, was told that they would ask the GP and I should call back later. When I called back I was completely shocked to hear the answer - No, the doctor says you shouldn't take them, with no explanation as to why I can't take them (I'm on no other medication and have no medical conditions), only that I need to see the nurse, but we can't fit you in today, you can see the doctor on Monday. Seeing as I'm supposed to start taking them today to be covered for the time I go on hols this seems a bit too late!
Sorry for the long post, but am starting to panic a bit and am not sure whether to just take the tablets today, or maybe go and see another pharmacist tomorrow. Any ideas or reassurance?

OP posts:
minipie · 06/05/2011 17:48

Tricky one. From a quick google it looks like although chloroquin is generally reckoned to be safe in pregnancy, nonetheless a lot of the manufacturers will say "do not take if pregnant" just to cover their arse be on the safe side. That may be why the GP has said don't take it - because she's/he's looked at the manufacturer recommendations.

My feeling would be that the risk of malaria is greater than the risk of the tablets (given all the evidence that they are fine), so I'd take the tablets. But I am in no way a doctor. Suggest speaking again to the same pharmacist, to ask why they think the GP might be saying no?

kreecherlivesupstairs · 08/05/2011 06:45

I've not been to the DR, I have lived in Thailand. I think it is better to avoid being bitten than to rely on tablets.
Cover your ankles, IME the mozzies love an ankle or foot.Use good repellent and be vigilent.
Good luck and enjoy your holiday.

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