Atovaquone and Proguanil
Atovaquone Proguanil
Atovaquone Proguanil is an FDA-approved prescription medication used for the prevention and treatment of malaria. It works by killing the malaria parasites inside red blood cells. This medication is available in oral tablets with a strength of 250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil, taken orally by mouth. The medication dosage depends on medical history, the body’s response to treatment, and weight. You can consult your physician or healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance on usage, dosage, and storage.
Product Overview
Atovaquone Proguanil contains two active ingredients: atovaquone and proguanil. This combination medication is used for the treatment and prevention of malaria by killing the malaria parasites inside red blood cells. Atovaquone interferes with the parasite’s energy production, while proguanil inhibits DNA synthesis, effectively stopping the parasite’s replication.
The medication is available in oral tablets with a strength of 250 mg atovaquone and 100 mg proguanil. It is typically taken once daily to prevent malaria, starting 1-2 days before travel and continuing for seven days after return. For treating malaria, the dosage is one tablet taken four times daily for three days. Suitable for adults and children, the dosage may vary based on weight and medical condition.
Common side effects include cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and stomach pain. Patients should take precautions, such as avoiding alcohol and operating machinery if dizziness occurs. Missed doses should be taken as soon as remembered, but never doubled. Store in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets. Always follow the healthcare provider’s guidance for safe use.
Uses of Atovaquone Proguanil
It is used to:
- Treat and prevent malaria in countries where malaria is common
Benefits of Atovaquone Proguanil
- It kills the malaria parasites present inside red blood cells
Side Effects of Atovaquone Proguanil
Common Atovaquone Proguanil side effects may include:
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Mouth sores
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
[Note: This list is not exhaustive; if you notice any other symptoms that are not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]
Atovaquone Proguanil Dosage
Forms & Strengths
It is available in the form of an oral tablet, which comes in the following strengths:
- 250 mg/100 mg
Recommended Dosages
Dosage for Preventing Malaria
- Take one tablet orally daily, starting 1-2 days before traveling to a country where malaria is common and continuing for seven days after return.
Dosage for Treating Malaria
- Take one tablet orally by mouth four times daily for three days.
How to Take Atovaquone Proguanil?
- Before starting to take this medication, carefully read and follow the instructions for use in the patient information leaflet included with your prescription.
- If you do not understand any part of this leaflet or if you have any questions or concerns about the medication use, you can consult your doctor.
- The combination of Atovaquone & Proguanil comes as a tablet to be taken orally by mouth. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor.
- The medication dosage is based on your condition, your body’s response to treatment, and whether you are treating or preventing the condition. In pediatric patients, it also depends on weight.
- Do not take the medication more or less than prescribed, in large quantities, or more frequently, as it can cause unwanted side effects.
- Do not stop taking this medication before the complete duration of treatment unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
- Take it around the same time every day to help you remember to take it, and try to maintain consistency in dosage to get the most benefit from your medication.
- Take this tablet with food or a milky drink to help your body absorb the maximum amount of this medication.
- If you vomit within one hour of taking this medication, take the entire dose again as soon as your stomach is able to tolerate it.
- You should swallow this medication whole, but if someone has difficulty swallowing tablets, you can crush and mix it with milk just before taking it.
- While using this medication, tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it worsens.
Missed Dose
- If you have missed a dose of Atovaquone Proguanil, you should take it as soon as you remember.
- However, if it is almost time to take your next dose, you may omit the missed dose and continue taking your medication according to your regular dosing schedule.
- You should not take double or extra doses of the same medication to compensate for the missed dose, as it can cause unwanted side effects.
- You should try setting a reminder on your phone to prevent missing doses.
[Note: Do not simultaneously take two doses of Atovaquone Proguanil to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your risk of experiencing unwanted side effects.]
Overdose
Atovaquone Proguanil overdose symptoms may include hair loss, headache, rash, shortness of breath, tiredness, vomiting, canker sores, and gray-bluish color of lips and/or skin. If someone has taken this medication more than the recommended dose and is having severe side effects such as passing out, seizures, and difficulty breathing, you should immediately seek medical assistance. Call 911, the poison control helpline, or head to the nearest emergency room.
[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]
How Does Atovaquone Proguanil Work?
Atovaquone-proguanil, commonly known as Malarone, is a combination medication used to treat and prevent malaria. Atovaquone works by hindering the function of mitochondria in the malaria parasite, effectively stopping its energy production, which leads to the parasite’s death. Conversely, Proguanil enhances the effect of atovaquone by stopping the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is crucial for the parasite’s DNA synthesis and replication. Together, these actions disrupt the malaria parasite’s life cycle, making atovaquone-proguanil an effective treatment and preventive measure against malaria.
Important Safety Precautions
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have an allergy to either of the two medications, to any other ingredients present in the product, or if you have any other allergies.
- Before using Atovaquone Proguanil, share your complete medical history with your doctor, especially if you have seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney problems, liver problems, or mental/mood problems.
- You should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or engage in activities that require clear vision and attention unless you can do it safely.
- It is not recommended to consume alcohol in large amounts while you are using this medication.
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or breastfeeding a baby, consult your doctor before taking this medication.
- Using this medication alone may not eliminate the parasite in certain types of malaria. If the infection returns after you complete taking the medication, you should use a different medication to treat or prevent malaria.
- Patients weighing more than 100 kilograms are at an increased risk of treatment failure, so they should be monitored closely while receiving treatment with this medication.
- Malaria cannot be prevented by simply taking medication. Insect repellent, wearing protective clothes, and sleeping under bednets are also included.
Storage
- Store Atovaquone proguanil tablets in their original container, tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture, excess heat, and direct sunlight.
- Do not keep it in the bathroom, near the sink, or in high moisture.
- Keep all medications, including Atovaquone Proguanil, in a safe place, away from the sight and reach of children and pets.
- Do not keep medications that are outdated or no longer needed. Discard them safely.
- Do not pour them down the drain, flush them down the toilet, or throw them in the household garbage bin.
- Dispose of unwanted medications in such a way that prevents children, animals, and others from consuming them.
- You can consult your doctor for more information on properly disposing of unwanted medications.
Atovaquone Proguanil Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Atovaquone Proguanil and affect its effectiveness. Some of them are given below.
- Dapsone topical
- Efavirenz
- Bupivacaine implant
- Efavirenz
- Indinavir
- Metoclopramide intranasal
- Metoclopramide
- Tetracycline
- Nirogacestat
- Pregabalin
- Quizartinib
- Rifabutin
- Rifampin
- Ritonavir
- Sapropterin
- Tadalafil
- Typhoid Vaccine, Live
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin C
- Warfarin
- Zofran
[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions, or supplements.]
Atovaquone Proguanil Alternatives
- Mefloquine (mefloquine hydrochloride)
- Chloroquine (chloroquine phosphate)
- Hydroxychloroquine (hydroxychloroquine sulfate)
- Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine)
- Vibramycin
- Doxy 100
[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Atovaquone Proguanil alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Atovaquone Proguanil be used during pregnancy?
It is not known whether Atovaquone Proguanil will harm an unborn baby. Malaria poses a significant risk during pregnancy, so discuss with your doctor the benefits & potential risks of using this prescription if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What should I do if I vomit after taking Atovaquone Proguanil?
If you vomit within one hour of taking Atovaquone Proguanil, take another dose as soon as your stomach can tolerate it. This ensures the medication is adequately absorbed to provide effective protection or treatment against malaria.
How should Atovaquone Proguanil be stored?
Store Atovaquone Proguanil in its original container at a controlled room temperature, away from moisture, excess heat, and direct sunlight. Keep it out of the bathroom and away from children and pets to ensure it remains effective and safe.
What interactions should I be aware of when taking Atovaquone Proguanil?
Atovaquone Proguanil may interact with several medications, including efavirenz, rifampin, and warfarin, potentially reducing its effectiveness or increasing side effects. Always inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking.
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