The Basics
What is Atovaquone?
Used to treat Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia.
Brand names for Atovaquone
Mepron
How Atovaquone is classified
Anti-infective Agents, Antiparasitic Agents, Antimalarials, Antiprotozoal Agents
Atovaquone During Pregnancy
Atovaquone pregnancy category
Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Atovaquone while pregnant
N/A
Taking Atovaquone While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Atovaquone?
No information is available on the use of atovaquone during breastfeeding. However, the quantity of drug in breast milk is assumed too low to provide adequate protection against malaria for the breastfed infant.[1] A dosage has been established for infants weighing as little as 5 kg, so it is unlikely to adversely affect breastfed infants weighing 5 kg or more.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the use of atovaquone during breastfeeding. However, the quantity of drug in breast milk is assumed too low to provide adequate protection against malaria for the breastfed infant.[1] A dosage has been established for infants weighing as little as 5 kg, so it is unlikely to adversely affect breastfed infants weighing 5 kg or more.
Possible effects of Atovaquone on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Atovaquone
Chloroquine, Mefloquine.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC Yellow Book 2018: Health Information for International Travel. New York: Oxford University Press. 2017. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/2018-yellow-book-about
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
