Atovaquone oral suspension

What is this medicine?

ATOVAQUONE (a TOE va kwone) is an anti-infective medicine. It is used to prevent and to treat Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP).

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with meals. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Always take this medicine with food. Shake gently before using. Use a specially marked spoon or dropper to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 13 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• fever or infection

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

• sore throat, white patches in the mouth

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• cough

• diarrhea

• headache

• nausea, vomiting

• runny nose

• stomach pain

• trouble sleeping

• unusual sweating

What may interact with this medicine?

• metoclopramide

• rifampin

• rifabutin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease

• stomach problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to atovaquone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for check ups as directed. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if you get new symptoms.