Atovaquone + Proguanil
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for atovaquone
Falciparum Malaria , Pneumocystis Pneumonia ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Antimalarial and Antiprotozoal
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Atovaquone and proguanil are used to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. This combination is effective against Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous type of malaria parasite. It is commonly used by travelers to high-risk areas and in regions where malaria is prevalent. The combination is also effective against strains of malaria that are resistant to other treatments, making it a valuable option in managing the disease.
Atovaquone works by disrupting the parasite's energy production, which is essential for its survival. Proguanil interferes with the parasite's ability to reproduce by inhibiting its folate synthesis, which is necessary for cell division. Together, they target different stages of the malaria parasite's life cycle, providing a comprehensive approach to treatment. This combination is effective against strains of malaria that are resistant to other medications, making it a valuable option in malaria management.
The usual adult daily dose for malaria prevention is one tablet, containing 250 mg of atovaquone and 100 mg of proguanil, taken once daily. For malaria treatment, the dose is typically four tablets taken once daily for three days. This combination provides a balanced approach, with atovaquone targeting the parasite's energy production and proguanil inhibiting its reproduction. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule to ensure the medication's effectiveness and reduce the risk of side effects.
Common side effects of atovaquone and proguanil include stomach upset, headache, and dizziness. Atovaquone may cause rash and nausea, while proguanil can lead to mouth sores and hair loss. Significant adverse effects, though rare, include liver problems and severe skin reactions. Both medicines can cause allergic reactions, which may present as difficulty breathing or swelling. It's important to monitor for these side effects and consult a healthcare provider if they occur. The combination is generally well-tolerated, but awareness of potential side effects is crucial for safe use.
Important warnings for atovaquone and proguanil include the risk of allergic reactions, which can be severe. People with liver or kidney problems should use this combination with caution, as it can affect these organs. Atovaquone may cause skin reactions, while proguanil can lead to blood disorders. The combination is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to either drug. It's crucial to inform healthcare providers of any medical conditions before starting the medication. Monitoring for side effects and following medical advice can help manage risks and ensure safe use.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil work?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are medicines used to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Atovaquone works by interfering with the energy production of the malaria parasite, which is necessary for its survival. It specifically targets the parasite's mitochondria, which are the parts of the cell that produce energy. Proguanil, on the other hand, works by inhibiting an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase, which is essential for the parasite to make DNA and reproduce. Both medicines are often used together because they attack the malaria parasite in different ways, making the treatment more effective. They share the common goal of stopping the growth and spread of the parasite in the body. This combination helps in reducing the risk of the parasite developing resistance to the treatment.
How effective is combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are two medicines often used together to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Atovaquone works by interfering with the energy production of the malaria parasite, which is essential for its survival. Proguanil, on the other hand, works by inhibiting an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase, which is crucial for the parasite's DNA synthesis and replication. Both medicines share the common attribute of targeting the malaria parasite, but they do so in different ways, making them more effective when used together. This combination is particularly effective against Plasmodium falciparum, which is the most dangerous type of malaria parasite. Clinical studies have shown that this combination is well-tolerated and effective in preventing malaria in travelers and treating uncomplicated malaria cases. The dual action helps reduce the risk of the parasite developing resistance.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil?
The usual adult daily dose for Atovaquone, which is a medicine used to prevent and treat malaria, is 250 mg. Proguanil, which is another medicine used for the same purpose, is usually taken at a dose of 100 mg daily. Both medicines are often combined to enhance their effectiveness against malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Atovaquone works by interfering with the energy production of the parasites, while Proguanil disrupts their ability to reproduce. Together, they provide a more comprehensive approach to preventing and treating malaria. Both medicines are taken orally, which means they are swallowed, and they are usually well-tolerated with few side effects. It's important to take them with food to improve absorption and effectiveness.
How does one take combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are often used together to prevent or treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. It's important to take these medicines with food or a milky drink, as this helps your body absorb them better. Atovaquone, which is an antiprotozoal medication, works by interfering with the energy production of the parasites. Proguanil, which is an antimalarial drug, works by stopping the parasites from multiplying in your body. Both medicines are usually taken once a day, starting one or two days before entering a malaria area, and continuing for seven days after leaving. There are no specific food restrictions, but taking them with food is crucial for effectiveness. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and complete the full course, even if you feel well.
For how long is combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil taken?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are often used together to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Typically, you start taking these medicines 1 to 2 days before entering an area where malaria is common. You continue taking them daily while in the area and for 7 days after leaving. Atovaquone, which is an antiprotozoal agent, works by interfering with the energy production of the malaria parasite. Proguanil, which is an antimalarial drug, works by inhibiting the parasite's ability to reproduce. Both medicines are taken orally and are well-tolerated by most people. They share the common goal of preventing malaria, but they work in different ways to achieve this. It's important to follow the prescribed duration to ensure effective prevention or treatment of malaria.
How long does it take for combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil to work?
The combination medicine you're asking about includes two active ingredients: ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine. Ibuprofen, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), typically starts working within 20 to 30 minutes to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Pseudoephedrine, which is a decongestant used to relieve nasal congestion, usually begins to work within 30 minutes to an hour. Both medicines are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, which means they start working relatively fast. However, the exact time can vary depending on individual factors like metabolism and whether the medicine is taken with food. Together, these medicines help relieve symptoms of pain and congestion, providing a more comprehensive relief than either would alone.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are medications used to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Both drugs can cause some common side effects like nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, which refer to discomfort in the belly area. Atovaquone can also cause headaches, which are pains in the head, and dizziness, which is a feeling of being unsteady or lightheaded. Proguanil may lead to mouth ulcers, which are painful sores inside the mouth, and hair loss, which is the thinning or falling out of hair. Significant adverse effects are rare but can include liver problems, which affect the organ that helps filter toxins from the blood, and severe skin reactions, which are serious rashes or blisters. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider if any severe symptoms occur.
Can I take combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil with other prescription drugs?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are often used together to prevent or treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Atovaquone, which is an antiprotozoal medication, works by inhibiting the growth of the parasites. Proguanil, which is an antimalarial drug, enhances the effect of Atovaquone by interfering with the parasite's ability to reproduce. When it comes to drug interactions, both Atovaquone and Proguanil can interact with other medications. Atovaquone may interact with rifampin, which is an antibiotic, and tetracycline, which is another type of antibiotic, reducing its effectiveness. Proguanil can interact with warfarin, which is a blood thinner, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. Both drugs can be affected by medications that alter liver enzymes, which are proteins that help break down substances in the body, potentially changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects.
Can I take combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil if I am pregnant?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are medicines used to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. During pregnancy, the safety of these medicines is a concern. Atovaquone, which works by stopping the growth of parasites, has limited data on its safety in pregnant women. Proguanil, which also stops parasite growth, is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it is often used with caution. Both medicines are usually recommended only when the benefits outweigh the risks, as malaria itself can be dangerous during pregnancy. They share the common attribute of being antimalarial drugs, but their safety profiles differ. It is important for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits before using these medicines.
Can I take combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil while breastfeeding?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are medications used to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. When it comes to breastfeeding, there is limited information available about the safety of Atovaquone. However, it is known that Atovaquone is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, which means it is unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts. Proguanil, on the other hand, is known to pass into breast milk, but the amounts are generally considered too low to cause harm to a breastfeeding infant. Both medications are often used together because they work in different ways to prevent malaria. If you are breastfeeding and need to take these medications, it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and any potential risks.
Who should avoid taking combination of Atovaquone and Proguanil?
Atovaquone and Proguanil are used together to prevent and treat malaria, which is a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Both medicines should not be used by people who are allergic to them. Atovaquone, which is a type of antibiotic, should be used with caution in people with liver problems, as it can affect liver function. Proguanil, which is a medication that stops the growth of parasites, should be used carefully in people with kidney issues, as it can affect kidney function. Both medicines can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It's important to take them with food or a milky drink to help reduce stomach upset. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using these medicines, as they may not be safe for the baby. Always follow the prescribed dosage and schedule to ensure effectiveness and safety.
