This medication contains 2 medicines: atovaquone and proguanil. It is used to prevent and treat malaria caused by mosquito bites in countries where malaria is common. Malaria parasites can enter the body through these mosquito bites, and then live in body tissues such as red blood cells or the liver.
What is the use of proguanil in pregnancy?
Proguanil mono-therapy is considered safe in pregnancy. There is more limited experience with the use of atovaquone in pregnancy, primarily for the treatment of both toxoplasmosis and babesiosis, where the benefit of treatment was deemed to outweigh the potential risks.
Is proguanil the same as chloroquine?
The PIL lists the possible side effects of this medication and also lists any medicines that may be affected by taking it. If you are regularly taking other medications (even over the counter tablets), you should always discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure it is safe to take proguanil.
Is proguanil a pro drug?
When used alone, proguanil functions as a prodrug. Its active metabolite, cycloguanil, is an inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Although both mammals and parasites produce DHFR, cycloguanil’s inhibitory activity is specific for parasitic DHFR.
Are proguanil tablets available on the NHS?
Proguanil tablets are not available on the NHS, but you are able to buy the tablets without a prescription at a pharmacy. Proguanil is also available as a combination tablet with atovaquone for malaria prevention.
How much proguanil can you take in a day?
Adults should take 200 mg daily, so this means taking two tablets every day. Take the two tablets at the same time. If the proguanil is for a child, read the directions on the label carefully, as their dose will depend upon their age and weight.
What is atovaquone proguanil HCl used for?
Atovaquone-Proguanil HCL. This medication contains 2 medicines: atovaquone and proguanil. It is used to prevent and treat malaria caused by mosquito bites in countries where malaria is common.
How to take proguanil for malaria?
How to take proguanil 1 Before you take proguanil, read the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet from inside the pack. 2 Proguanil should be taken for a week before entering an area where malaria occurs. 3 Take the tablets exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you to.
