Atovaquone for pneumocystis pneumonia

About atovaquone

Atovaquone is used to treat a chest infection called pneumocystis pneumonia. This lung infection is caused by an organism called Pneumocystis jirovecii and occurs in people whose immune system has been weakened - for example, by AIDS. Atovaquone is prescribed when other treatments cannot be used. It is prescribed by doctors who are specialists.

Atovaquone works by killing the organism causing the infection.

Before taking atovaquone

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking atovaquone it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have liver or kidney problems.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take atovaquone

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from the pack. The leaflet will give you more information about atovaquone and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Take the medicine exactly as your doctor tells you to, and remember to shake the bottle well before you pour out your doses. The usual dose is one 5 ml spoonful twice daily (morning and night) for 21 days.

• It is very important that you take your doses with food, preferably foods that are high in fat. This is because high-fat foods help your body absorb atovaquone and make your treatment more effective. If you have difficulty eating meals for any reason, let your doctor know about this.

• Try to take atovaquone at the same times each day as this will help you remember to take it.

• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember (with some food) but do not take two doses together.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. Your doctor will want to do some tests during this treatment to check that the medicine is working for you.

• Remember to take the full course of this medicine.

• If you have any medical or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with your other medicines.
  

Can atovaquone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you become breathless or start having breathing problems, or if you notice any swelling of your mouth, throat or face, you should contact a doctor straightaway. These could be signs of an allergic-type reaction.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store atovaquone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• This medicine will keep for 21 days once the bottle has been opened.

Important information about all medicines