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Mepron
Generic name: atovaquone
What is Mepron?
Mepron stops protozoa (single-cell organisms) from reproducing, which can cause illness in the body.
Mepron is used to treat or prevent pneumonia caused by a fungal infection called Pneumocystis carinii (also known as Pneumocystis jiroveci).
Mepron is for adults and children who are at least 13 years old.
Mepron may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I take Mepron?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take with food.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
If you are taking a pre-measured dose from a foil pouch, use all of the medicine in the pouch. You may drink it directly from the pouch or pour it into a spoon or cup before taking.
Take Mepron for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.
Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
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Warnings
Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are taking.
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Before taking this medicine
You should not use Mepron if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- liver disease; or
- a stomach or intestinal disorder.
It is not known whether Mepron will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed a baby while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risks.
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Mepron side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning in your eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling).
Mepron may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:
- liver problems--loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Common side effects of Mepron may include:
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- headache;
- fever; or
- rash.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Mepron?
Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medications together. Some drugs can change the blood levels of other drugs you take, which may increase side effects or make the medications less effective.
Other drugs may affect Mepron, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.