Atovaquone
(uh-TOE-vuh-kwone)
Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us
What is atovaquone?
Atovaquone (Mepron™) is a drug that is used to treat or prevent infections caused by certain protozoa, and other opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Most commonly, it is used in the treatment of infections caused by Pneumocystis carinii (PCP), Toxoplasma gondii and malaria. It is available as a suspension that is taken orally.
Back to top
Special Instructions
- Tell your child's doctor if your child has a history of kidney, liver, or heart disease.
- Tell your child's doctor about other medications, including herbal or over-the-counter medicines, that your child is taking.
- Tell your child's doctor if he/she is also taking rifampin (Rifadin", Rimactane") or rifabutin (Mycobutin"). Atovaquone may not work as well if taken with either of these two medicines.
- Shake bottle before use.
- Take with a meal, preferably one that is high in fat.
- Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle/package.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
- If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC, 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222), or call your child's doctor immediately.
Back to top
Missed Dose
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
Back to top
Possible Side Effects
Call your child's doctor if the following persist or become bothersome:
- Headache
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach and abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Cough
Back to top
Warning Signs
Call your child's doctor immediately if any of the following occur:
- Severe nausea/vomiting
- Rash or hives
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe stomach pain
Back to top
Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Back to top
Patient Education Program V 5103 8/98, rev. 9/05, 9/07
