Atovaquone

Information About Atovaquone

Uses of Atovaquone

Atovaquone is commonly used to treat prophylaxis of pneumocystis jirovecci pneumonia, mild to moderate pneumocystis jirovecci pneumonia

How Atovaquone Works

Atovaquone is an antimalarial or antiprotozoal agent which inhibits complex III of the mitochondrial electron transport chain of Pneumocystis jirovecii. Thus, it inhibits the synthesis of nucleic acids and ATP leading to parasite death.

Side Effects of Atovaquone

Anaemia, Neutropenia, Hyponatremia, Insomnia, Headache, Nausea, Elevated liver enzymes, Hypersensitivity reactions (Throat tightness, angioedema, bronchospasm), Rash, Pruritus, Fever

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Atovaquone Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Consumption of alcohol with Atovaquone may be unsafe as both can affect liver enzymes.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Atovaquone may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. There is no information regarding the adverse effects of Atovaquone on the fetus and there are insufficient animal studies that have shown possible risks to the developing fetus. Nevertheless, the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk.

Lactation Limited Data

Excretion of Atovaquone in human milk is unknown. Therefore, it is safer to avoid taking Atovaquone during lactation.

Driving Generally Safe

There is no information about the effect of Atovaquone on the ability to drive. Nevertheless, Atovaquone's pharmacological property is not predicted to give detrimental effects on driving.

Kidney Safe If Prescribed

Dose adjustment of Atovaquone is not required in patients with renal impairment as it is not excreted renally.

Liver Limited Data

Atovaquone should be used with caution in patients with liver disease as it is excreted by the liver. Dose adjustment of the medication is not needed. Nevertheless, close monitoring is required following the administration. Please consult your doctor.