Atovaquone and proguanil
Generic name: atovaquone and proguanil [ a-TOE-va-kwone-and-pro-GWAHN-il ]
Brand names: Malarone, Malarone Pediatric
Dosage form: oral tablet (250 mg-100 mg; 62.5 mg-25 mg)
Drug class:Antimalarial combinations
What is atovaquone and proguanil?
Atovaquone and proguanil is a combination medicine used to treat or prevent malaria, a disease caused by parasites. These medicines work by interfering with the growth of parasites in the red blood cells of the human body.
Parasites that cause malaria typically enter the body through the bite of a mosquito. Malaria is common in areas such as Africa, South America, and Southern Asia.
Atovaquone and proguanil may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use atovaquone and proguanil to prevent malaria if you have severe kidney disease.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to atovaquone or proguanil.
Do not use atovaquone and proguanil to prevent malaria if you have severe kidney disease.
Atovaquone and proguanil should not be used to treat malaria in a child who weighs less than 11 pounds (5 kilograms), and should not be used to prevent malaria in a child who weighs less than 24 pounds (11 kilograms).
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Malaria is more likely to cause death in a pregnant woman. If you are pregnant, talk with your doctor about the risks of traveling to areas where malaria is common.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
How should I take atovaquone and proguanil?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take the medicine at the same time each day.
Take atovaquone and proguanil with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.
If you vomit within 1 hour after taking this medication, take another dose.
If you are take this medicine to prevent malaria:
Start taking the medicine 1 or 2 days before entering an area where malaria is common. Continue taking the medicine every day during your stay and for at least 7 days after you leave the area.
Use atovaquone and proguanil regularly to best prevent malaria. If you stop using the medication early for any reason, talk to your doctor about other forms of malaria prevention.
If you take this medicine to treat malari...
