Atovaquone

Drug #1428

Atovaquone is an anprotozoal, and a highly lipophilic analog of ubiquinone. It interferes with mitochondrial electron transport and related processes in suseptible malaria parasites. It has potent activity against blood stages of plasmodia, tachyzoites and cyst formsof T.gondii, the fungus P.carinii, and Babesia species. Atovaqunone is used with a biguanide for the treatment of malariato obtain optimal clinical results and avoid emergence of drug-resultant plasmodial strains.

← Previous drug Next drug →

Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Naphthalenedione.

It is classified in Antiprotozoal pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 366.8 · pK_a: not known · Solubility in Water: insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: low · Non-proprietary name: Atovaquone.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Atovaquone has an oral bioavailability is 23% (±11%).

Distribution: Atovaquone has a volume of distribution is unknown. plasma protein binding is > 99%.

Elimination: plasma half-life is 2.9 days, renal excretion is > 1% (unchanged).

Indications

Atovaquone is primarily indicated in conditions like Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, Prophylaxis of acid aspiration in obstetric patients.

Atovaquone is also indicated for secondary conditions like Acute toxoplasmic encephalitis, Malaria, Prophylaxis of p-carinii pneumonia.

Contraindications

Atovaquone is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.

Dosage

Atovaquone's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
750 mg	750 mg	Every 12h	PO	This dose is for treatment of mild-moderate PCP(pneumocystis carini pneumonia): 750mg or 5ml two times daily taken with meal.
1500 mg	1500 mg	Every 24h	PO	This dose is for prevention of PCP(pneumocystis carini pneumonia): 1500mg or 10ml one daily taken with meal.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
No data.
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown1 interaction

3 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Atovaquone in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Maculopapular rash .

Atovaquone is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anemia, Asthenia , Diarrhea, Fever, Headache, Insomnia, Nausea, Rashes , Vomiting .

Warnings / Precautions

Atovaquone should be used with caution in initial diarrhoea and difficulty in taking with food may reduce absorption (and require alternative therapy); other causes of pulmonary disease should be saught and treated; elderly; hepatic and renal impairment; avoid breast-feeding.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Tabs

250 mg 62.5 mg

Storage Conditions

Atovaquone should be stored Oral Susp. Tab.

Drug Classification

1.6.4.1 — Antiamebic & antigiardiasis drugs

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Atovaquone in Pakistan:

Hilton