Atovaquone is used to treat pneumonia, a lung infection caused by the bacteria Pnuemocystis jiroveci.
Take Atovaquone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take this medicine with food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Atovaquone must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have stomach disease or liver disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Atovaquone may cause any of the following side effects: headache, difficulty sleeping, skin rash, itching, excessive sweating, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, weakness, cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, inflammation of the sinuses, and fever.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines used to treat TB (lung infection known as tuberculosis) e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin
- other antibiotics e.g. tetracycline, co-trimoxazole
- medicines used to treat epilepsy (fits) e.g. phenytoin
- HIV medicines e.g. efavirenz, ritonavir, zidovudine
- metoclopramide (medicine for stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Atovaquone.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.