MEPRON ORAL SUSPENSION (ATOVAQUONE)

Mepron Oral Suspension Description

Mepron Oral Suspension is used to treat Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (also known as PJP and once called (PCP) Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia) which is more likely to affect people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to a suppressed immune system.

PJP is a highly treatable and preventable infection, although it is still a major cause of death in AIDS patients. Symptoms of pneumocystis pneumonia include; fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, major weight loss, dry cough and rapid breathing.

How Mepron Oral Suspension Can Treat and Prevent PJP

Atovaquone, the active ingredient in Mepron Oral Suspension is in a class of medications called antiprotozoal agents that work by stopping the growth of certain types of protozoa that can cause pneumonia. The complicated process of how Mepron kills the protozoa involves the inhibition of certain enzymes needed to successfully synthesize their DNA. Unable to perform this action, the parasites die.

Conditions Treated by Mepron Oral Suspension

Pneumocystis pneumonia is a serious infection that causes inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. It is caused by a fungus called Pneumocystis jiroveci but does not respond to anti-fungal treatment. This fungus, which is likely spread through the air, is very common. A healthy immune system can easily control it, but it causes a type of pneumonia in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. This is why it's called an opportunistic infection. PJP is the most common opportunistic infection in those with HIV/AIDS.

Mepron Oral Suspension may also be used along with other medications to treat babesiosis, an infectious disease carried by ticks. Many people who are infected with Babesia do not have symptoms, while others may develop flu-like symptoms. Babesiosis can be a severe, life-threatening disease in people who have a weakened immune system or other serious health conditions. Effective treatment is available with medications like Mepron Oral Suspension.

Before Mepron Oral Suspension is Prescribed

Ask your doctor about the safety of taking Atovaquone if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding. It is important that your doctor knows if you have liver disease, or a stomach or intestinal disorder before you start taking Mepron Oral Suspension. Tell your doctor about all current Rx and OTC meds you take or use.

Mepron Oral Suspension Precautions

Mepron Oral Suspension should be taken with meals; it may be less effective if not taken with food. You should not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to Mepron Oral Suspension. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms seem better before the infection is completely treated.

Possible Side Effects of Mepron Oral Suspension

• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Mild skin rash

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following more serious side effects: easy bruising or bleeding, fever, flu symptoms, white patches in your mouth or throat, worsening cough, wheezing, trouble breathing, a severe red or peeling skin rash, or jaundice.