Side Effects of atovaquone: A Synthesis of Findings from 27 Studies

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This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of atovaquone: A Synthesis of Findings from 27 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Atovaquone is a medication used for treating parasitic infections like malaria and toxoplasmosis. Studies have shown atovaquone to be effective, particularly when administered intravenously. For example, 5 found that atovaquone nanosuspensions, administered intravenously, were a promising treatment for toxoplasmic encephalitis in immunocompromised mice.

While atovaquone is often used for malaria prophylaxis, it can cause adverse effects, including gastrointestinal issues, neurological symptoms, and skin problems. A study in 19 indicated that travelers taking atovaquone for malaria prevention may experience health problems.

Further research highlighted atovaquone's role in preventing infections like pneumonia, especially in immunocompromised individuals. 9 reported that intravenous pentamidine, another drug used for prophylaxis of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), was studied in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, highlighting the importance of prophylaxis in this vulnerable population.

Moreover, atovaquone has also been shown to be effective in treating other infections. For instance, 27 demonstrated the effectiveness of atovaquone in treating babesiosis.

Reasons for Side Effects

Atovaquone's side effects are believed to be caused by its interference with the electron transport chain in mitochondria, which impacts cellular energy production. The drug's metabolism in the liver can also contribute to side effects, as it may place a strain on the organ. Additionally, atovaquone might impact the central nervous system. 4

Common Side Effects

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Gastrointestinal symptoms are among the most frequent side effects of atovaquone. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are commonly reported. 18

Neurological Symptoms

Atovaquone may cause headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and altered consciousness. 8

Skin Symptoms

Skin reactions, including rash, itching, and skin sores, can occur with atovaquone use. 1

Liver Damage

Liver damage is a potential side effect of atovaquone. Abnormal liver function and jaundice may be observed. 23

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Countermeasures for Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Consult your doctor if you experience severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Depending on the severity, you may need to discontinue atovaquone or switch to another medication. 15

Countermeasures for Neurological Symptoms

Consult your doctor if you experience severe neurological symptoms. Depending on the severity, you may need to discontinue atovaquone or switch to another medication. 8

Countermeasures for Skin Symptoms

Consult your doctor if you experience severe skin symptoms. Depending on the severity, you may need to discontinue atovaquone or switch to another medication. 1

Countermeasures for Liver Damage

Consult your doctor if you suspect liver damage. Depending on the severity, you may need to discontinue atovaquone or switch to another medication. 23

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities of Studies

Multiple studies have shown atovaquone to be an effective treatment for parasitic infections. The drug has also demonstrated a relatively safe profile in many studies. 10 11 22

Differences between Studies

The severity and frequency of atovaquone's side effects can vary depending on the research. Additionally, the effectiveness of atovaquone in treating different infections may vary from study to study. 26 5 12

Notes on Real-Life Application

While atovaquone is effective in treating and preventing parasitic infections, its potential side effects should be considered. Always consult your doctor before taking atovaquone. 9 7

Limitations of Current Research

The research on atovaquone's side effects is still limited. Long-term side effects, in particular, are not yet fully understood. 16 7

Future Research Directions

Further research on the side effects of atovaquone is needed. Particularly, investigation into long-term side effects and the potential for interactions with other drugs is critical. 16 13

Conclusion

Atovaquone is a valuable medication for treating and preventing parasitic infections, but its potential side effects should not be overlooked. If you are taking atovaquone, consult your doctor for proper guidance. Future research should delve deeper into the side effects of atovaquone. 14

Literature analysis of 27 papers
Positive Content
22
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
4
Article Type
1
1
1
6
25
3.

[New trends in ocular toxoplasmosis--the review].

Author: BorkowskiP K

Ocular toxoplasmosis is a serious eye infection that can be caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Polish

4.

Study of Tissue-Specific Reactive Oxygen Species Formation by Cell Membrane Microarrays for the Characterization of Bioactive Compounds.

Author: ElexpeAne, NietoNerea, Fernández-CuétaraClaudia, Domínguez-FernándezCeltia, Morera-HerrerasTeresa, TorrecillaMaría, MiguélezCristina, LasoAntonio, OchoaEneko, BailenMaría, González-ColomaAzucena, Angulo-BarturenIñigo, AstigarragaEgoitz, Barreda-GómezGabriel

Safety profile
Oxidative damage

This study evaluated the safety profile of six antimalarial drugs and two essential oils against toxicity mediated by oxidative stress. The drugs were tested on cell membranes isolated from human tissues and showed specific behavior according to the tissue type. Atovaquone and quinidine produced the highest percentage of superoxide formation, while doxycycline produced the lowest.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

6.

Use of rifabutin in combination with atovaquone, clindamycin, pyrimethamine, or sulfadiazine for treatment of toxoplasmic encephalitis in mice.

Author: AraujoF G, SuzukiY, RemingtonJ S

Reduced side effects
Toxoplasmosis treatment

This study investigated the effectiveness of combinations of rifabutin with other drugs in treating toxoplasmic encephalitis in a mouse model. Rifabutin combined with atovaquone or clindamycin was more effective than either drug alone.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

8.

Mefloquine for preventing malaria during travel to endemic areas.

Author: Tickell-PainterMaya, MaayanNicola, SaundersRachel, PaceCheryl, SinclairDavid

Malaria prevention
Abnormal dreams
Anxiety
Depressed mood
Insomnia

Mefloquine is a highly effective antimalarial agent, but it may be associated with psychological side effects, particularly abnormal dreams, anxiety, insomnia, and depressed mood. The absolute risk of malaria during short-term travel appears low with all three established antimalarial agents (mefloquine, doxycycline, and atovaquone-proguanil). The choice of antimalarial agent depends on individual traveller's preference.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

10.

Antiparasitic agents.

Author: RosenblattJ E

Effective antihelminthics
Effective malaria prevention
Treatment of multidrug resistant malaria
Treatment of visceral leishmaniasis
Side effects
Stillbirths
Toxic effects

This abstract discusses recent developments in the treatment of parasitic infections. Several new drugs are mentioned, including Malarone, halofantrine, artemisinin derivatives, azithromycin, albendazole, and liposomal amphotericin B.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

12.

Early treatment failure during treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria with atovaquone-proguanil in the Republic of Ivory Coast.

Author: WurtzNathalie, PascualAurélie, Marin-JauffreAdeline, BouchibaHousem, BenoitNicolas, DesbordesMarc, MartelloniMaryse, Pommier de SantiVincent, RichaGeorges, TaudonNicolas, PradinesBruno, BriolantSébastien

Malaria treatment
Mild side effects
Drug resistance
Treatment failure

Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone®) has been shown to be highly effective against Plasmodium falciparum with only mild side effects. Treatment failures have been attributed to suboptimal dosages or parasite resistance.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

14.

Adherence to malaria prophylaxis among Peace Corps Volunteers in the Africa region, 2013.

Author: LandmanKeren Z, TanKathrine R, ArguinPaul M

Prophylaxis non-adherence

Peace Corps Volunteers showed moderate adherence to malaria prophylaxis, with forgetting, fear of long-term adverse effects, and experiencing side effects being the most common reasons for non-adherence.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

15.

Atovaquone-proguanil (malarone): an effective treatment for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in travelers from Denmark.

Author: ThyboSören, GjorupIda, RonnAnita M, MeyrowitschDan, BygbergIb C

Malaria treatment

Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) is an effective, safe, and acceptable oral treatment for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

Atovaquone as long-term suppressive therapy for toxoplasmic encephalitis in patients with AIDS and multiple drug intolerance. Atovaquone Expanded Access Group.

Author: KatlamaC, MouthonB, GourdonD, LapierreD, RousseauF

Reduced toxoplasmic encephalitis relapse
Side effects

Atovaquone was well-tolerated and effective as long-term maintenance therapy for toxoplasmic encephalitis in patients intolerant to conventional anti-Toxoplasma drugs.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

17.

A cluster of Plasmodium vivax malaria in an expedition group to Ethiopia: prophylactic efficacy of atovaquone/proguanil on liver stages of P. vivax.

Author: MavrogordatoAlice, LeverAndrew M L

This study identified a cluster of Plasmodium vivax malaria infections in a group of people who traveled to Ethiopia. The study highlights the importance of malaria prevention, even in areas where P. falciparum is the dominant malaria parasite.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Symptoms of illness during travel and risk factors for non-adherence to malaria prophylaxis-a cross-sectional study in travellers from Germany.

Author: ReinsbergFriederike, MoehlmannMary W, KrumkampRalf, LandsmannLena, HeitkampChristian, JochumJohannes, AddoMarylyn, RamharterMichael, RadtChristiane, RotheCamilla, VinnemeierChristof, KreuelsBenno

Antimalarial chemoprophylaxis
Non-adherence
Travel-related illness

This cross-sectional study investigated the occurrence of symptoms of illness in travelers with and without antimalarial chemoprophylaxis. The study found that travelers with chemoprophylaxis had a lower prevalence of symptoms of illness.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

20.

[Malaria chemoprophylaxis].

Author: PetersenJørgen Eskild

Malaria risk
Side effects

Malaria is a serious infection, and prevention traditionally relies on chemoprophylaxis during and after exposure. The risk of side effects from chemoprophylaxis needs to be balanced against the risk of infection. Atovaquone/proguanil has been registered in Europe for travels of up to four weeks, but in the United States there is no upper limit for the duration of use. It is not possible to prescribe efficient prophylaxis to pregnant women in the first trimester or infants below 11 kilograms of body weight travelling to tropical Africa.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Danish

21.

OXPHOS-targeting drugs in oncology: new perspectives.

Author: KalyanaramanBalaraman, ChengGang, HardyMicael, YouMing

Cancer treatment
Clinical toxicity

Drugs targeting mitochondria are a promising area of research in cancer treatment. However, clinical toxicity is a concern. This paper discusses strategies for developing mitochondria-targeted modified natural compounds and FDA-approved drugs with increased therapeutic indexes in cancer.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

22.

The High Potency of Green Synthesized Copper Nanoparticles to Prevent the Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Mice.

Author: AlbalawiAishah E, AlanaziAbdullah D, AlyousifMohamed S, SepahvandAzadeh, EbrahimiKatrin, NiaziMassumeh, MahmoudvandHossein

Prophylactic effect against toxoplasmosis
Reduced tissue cyst formation

This study evaluates the prophylactic effects of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) green synthesized by Capparis spinosa fruit methanolic extract alone and combined with atovaquone against chronic toxoplasmosis in mice.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

23.

Community management of anti-malarials in Africa and iatrogenic risk.

Author: OrosteguiLupé, BaluLaurent, ChevretLaurent, HabesDalila, PussardEric

Hepatic damage

Inappropriate use of anti-malarials can lead to missed diagnosis and severe side effects. A case of an 8-year-old girl receiving anti-malarial prophylaxis developed irreversible hepatic damage requiring transplantation due to cumulative drug toxicity. Early identification and discontinuation of drug-induced toxicity are crucial to limit tissue damage.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

25.

CV8, a new combination of dihydroartemisinin, piperaquine, trimethoprim and primaquine, compared with atovaquone-proguanil against falciparum malaria in Vietnam.

Author: GiaoPhan T, de VriesPeter J, HungLe Q, BinhTran Q, NamNguyen V, KagerPiet A

CV8 effective against malaria
Malarone effective against malaria

This study compared the efficacy of two drug combinations, CV8 and Malarone, for treating uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Vietnam. Both combinations were effective against multi-drug resistant falciparum malaria, with similar cure rates and rapid parasite clearance. CV8 offers the advantage of a lower price.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

26.

Efficacy of atovaquone against Babesia gibsoni in vivo and in vitro.

Author: MatsuuAya, KoshidaYushi, KawaharaMegumi, InoueKenichi, IkadaiHiromi, HikasaYoshiaki, OkanoShozo, HiguchiSeiichi

Improved anemia
Improved thrombocytopenia
Drug resistance

Atovaquone is an effective treatment for the parasitic infection Babesia gibsoni in dogs. However, resistance to atovaquone has been observed in dogs with recurring infections.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

27.

Acute Babesiosis Causing a False-Positive HIV Result: An Unexpected Association.

Author: HeJody Z, RezwanMontasin, ArifAneela, BaroudSaada, ElhajMohamed, KhanAizaaz

Babesiosis treatment
False-positive HIV test

A case report describes a patient with babesiosis who had a false-positive HIV test on admission. After treatment for babesiosis, the HIV test became negative.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

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