Atovaquone is used to treat Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). It is also being studied in the management of other
infections, such as prevention of PCP, and treatment of toxoplasmosis gondii or cryptosporidial diarrhea.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
Atovaquone is available as a fruit-flavoured liquid. Shake the bottle gently before use.
The usual dosage of atovaquone suspension is 750mg (1 teaspoon or 5ml) two times daily.
It is important that you take atovaquone with a high-fat meal to make sure that it is fully absorbed into the body.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you remember your missed dose close to the time of your next dose, do not double your dose, just continue with your regular schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Atovaquone is generally well tolerated. Occasionally, atovaquone may cause a number of undesired effects such as
cough, diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting, and trouble sleeping. If these effects occur, they may go away during
treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of these effects becomes bothersome.
Fever or skin rash may occur. If these effects do happen, you should check with your doctor immediately.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR
PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
Atovaquone suspension may cause a yellow staining of clothing so care should be taken to avoid spillage.
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor. The safety of
atovaquone has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
Other medications may affect the way atovaquone works. Therefore, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the
prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking, and do not start taking other medications without discussing this first.
How should this medication be STORED?
Atovaquone suspension should be stored in a cool (15-25°C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of children. DO NOT FREEZE.
Do not store in your bathroom as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR
PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________ Please ask for ____________________
