ATOVAQUONE

Antibacterial Activity

Use in treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) in patients who are intolerant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

Pregnancy Risk Factor

Category C

Contraindication/Precaution

Hypersensitivity to atovaquone or any component
Has not been evaluated as an agent for PCP prophylaxis.
Use caution if nursing
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established
Dosage reduction may be necessary in patients with liver dysfunction

Mechanism of Action

Not fully understood. Appears to act on the cytochrome bc1 complex (Complex III) thus inhibiting of electron transport resulting in indirect inhibition of certain enzymes. The ultimate metabolic effects of such blockade may include inhibition of nucleic acid and ATP synthesis.

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics

Metabolism: 
N/A
Half-life: 
2.2-3.2 days
Elimination: 
excreted  in feces

Dosage

Children:

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established

Adults:

750 mg PO bid for 21 days

Dosage In Renal Failure

Creatinine clearance (ml/min):
N/A
Dialysis
Hemo: N/A
CAPD: N/A