Side Effects of Mepron

Mepron (generic name: atovaquone) is a medication used to prevent and treat Pneumocystitis carinni pneumonia (PCP). It is an antifungal medication that prevents the protozoa (tiny infectious cells) from multiplying and wreaking havoc on your body. Mepron is available as a liquid suspension, and you will typically take 10mL of Mepron daily every eight hours for 21 days, according to MedlinePlus.

Prevalent Side Effects

According to Drugs.com, Mepron can cause vomiting, nausea, a headache, constipation and diarrhea. It can also cause stomach pain, weakness, diaphoresis (sweating), trouble sleeping, muscle pain, a skin rash and dizziness. MedlinePlus indicates Mepron can also cause a change in your sense of taste. These routine side effects should not induce panic, but you should notify your doctor if they fail to subside within three to four days.

Harmful Side Effects

MedlinePlus warns that Mepron's serious side effects include a fever, skin rash, vomiting, extreme weakness and itching. It can also cause the flu, a bad cough, a sore throat and blistering of your skin. Other harmful side effects include bronchospasm, a condition in which your airways suddenly tighten and cause trouble breathing, wheezing and tightness in your chest, according to Drugs.com. Mepron can cause your eyes or skin to turn yellow, a possible sign of liver damage. It can also cause a poor appetite and dark urine. This may be an indication of kidney destruction. Talk to your doctor at once when these side effects develop.

Additional Concerns

Avoid taking Mepron if you are hypersensitive to its components. You can develop trouble breathing, closing up of your throat and swelling of your face, tongue or lips. Call 911 if these symptoms emerge.
Drugs.com recommends notifying your physician if you are currently taking rifabutin, rifampin, warfarin or carbamazepine. These medications may interact with Mepron and cause the aforementioned side effects.
Tell your doctor if you have a medical history of liver, intestinal or stomach problems. Mepron can cause further destruction to these organs.
Drugs.com says it is unknown if Mepron can contaminate breast milk or pass to your child during pregnancy. Tell your physician if you are pregnant or wanting to breastfeed.

References

Article reviewed by Bridget Gregory Last updated on: Dec 20, 2009

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments