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This medication is used to prevent or treat pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) in selected patients.
HOW TO USE: Shake the bottle gently but thoroughly prior to use. Take this medication by mouth with food as directed usually 2 times a day for 21 days. Maximal absorption of atovaquone into the body will occur if it is taken with meals. For best results, take each dose approximately 12 hours apart. This will ensure a constant level of medication in your body. Take this medication for the full time prescribed. Stopping therapy too soon may result in a reinfection. SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, sweating or altered taste may occur especially the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: vomiting, fever, skin rash, itching, unusual weakness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: lung disease, any allergies. Use caution driving or operating machinery if this drug makes you drowsy or dizzy. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Laboratory tests will be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor its effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. It is very important that you not freeze this product because freezing decreases the absorption of the drug and may result in treatment failure. |