Indications
Mepron is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient atovaquone. It is used to prevent and treat Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP) in adults and children 13 years of age and older. Mepron is also used to treat the symptoms of Malaria caused by the P. falciparum parasite.
Mepron is highly effective in treating and preventing Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP), a type of lung infection that often affects people with weakened immune systems. Mepron is only available with a prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Uses and Dosage
Mepron solutions are intended for oral administration and should be taken with food. The suspension is bright yellow with a citrus flavor. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and at regular intervals. Shake the bottle well before use and use the dosing device provided to measure the prescribed dose.
To ensure the efficiency of Mepron solution, maintain a constant level of medicine in your body. If you are taking Mepron twice a day, it should be taken at regular intervals about 12 hours apart. For those taking Mepron once a day, it should be taken at the same time every day. Complete the full course of treatment, as stopping early may cause the infection to return.
To treat Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP), take Mepron Suspension by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily for 21 days. To prevent PCP, take Mepron with food usually once a day as directed. It must be taken with food so your body can absorb as much of the medication as possible so it can work well.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Mepron (Atovaquone):
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rash
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Mepron (Atovaquone):
- Burning in your eyes
- Dark urine
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Hives
- Loss of appetite
- Red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling
- Severe skin reaction
- Skin pain
- Sore throat
- Stomach pain (upper right side)
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Tiredness
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Form and Strength
Mepron (Atovaquone) is available in the following forms and strength:
Mepron: Suspension
- 750mg/5mL
Caution
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease, as Mepron may worsen liver function.
- Mepron may cause hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) in patients with G6PD deficiency.
- Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in patients taking Mepron.
- The concomitant use of Mepron and rifampin may reduce Mepron efficacy and is not recommended.
- Mepron may be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. It is not known whether Mepron passes into breastmilk, so talk to your doctor before breastfeeding while taking the solution.
- Mepron has not been studied extensively in children under 13 years old, so use with caution in this age group.
- Mepron may interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and antifungal agents, so talk to your doctor about all medications you are taking.
- Mepron may cause diarrhea in some patients, which can be severe in rare cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Mepron to start working?
Mepron can start working within a few days of starting treatment, but take the medication as directed by your doctor for the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.
How should Mepron be stored?
Mepron should be stored at room temperature between 68- and 77-degrees Fahrenheit (20 and 25 degrees Celsius) and protected from light. The medication should not be frozen or refrigerated.
Can Mepron be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Mepron may be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether Mepron passes into breast milk, so talk to your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication.
How often should I take Mepron?
Mepron dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Always take Mepron exactly as prescribed by your doctor and at regular intervals.
How long does Mepron stay in your system?
On average, Mepron has a half-life of approximately 66 hours, meaning it takes about 3-4 days for the medication to be excreted from the body.
Resources
- https://gskpro.com/content/dam/global/hcpportal/en_US/Prescribing_Information/Mepron/pdf/MEPRON.PDF
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1374/mepron-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020500s010lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=b426b6bf-f07e-4580-97ae-dfca1ddf5b8f
- https://www.rxlist.com/mepron-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atovaquone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20062055?p=1
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