What is Mepron (Atovaquone) prescribed for?

Atovaquone, the active ingredient within Mepron, is a medication used to prevent or to treat a serious lung infection known as pneumocystis pneumonia. Generally this infection causes the air sacs in your lungs to fill with a fluid or pus. And in turn, can make it more difficult for you to breath in enough oxygen to reach your bloodstream.

While anyone can get this infection, who over the age of 65 are at a higher risk. Mostly due to the fact that their immune systems might not be strong enough to fight it.

You can get this lung infection without even knowing it. Speak with your doctor regarding any details or questions you may have.

Symptoms of this infection may include a fever, cough, tiredness, and shortness of breath.

Shake the bottle gently before each dose. And make sure to carefully measure each dose using a special measuring spoon or device. Do not use a household spoon. You may get an incorrect measurement and therefore the wrong dose.

To treat PCP, this medication is to be taken by mouth and with food, and usually taken twice a day, for 21 days. However to prevent PCP this medication should be taken with food, and usually only once a day or as directed by your doctor. This medication must be taken with food so that your body may absorb as much of the medication as possible so that it may work well for you.

This medication works at its best when the amount of the medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. For example, if you take the drug twice a day, take it every 12 hours. If only once a day, make sure you take it at the exactly the same time, every day.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Atovaquone; or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform you doctor of you Medical history. Especially if liver disease, kidney disease, stomach/intestinal problems that may affect absorption of atovaquone (such as long-term diarrhea, malabsorption syndrome).

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, or runny nose may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: depression, symptoms of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine).

Atovaquone can commonly cause a mild rash that is usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Get medical help right away if you develop any rash.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.