Atovaquone/proguanil

Atovaquone/proguanil is a medication used to treat and prevent malaria, a disease caused by parasites that enter the body through the bite of a mosquito. It is a combination of two drugs, atovaquone and proguanil, and is sold under the brand name Malarone among others.

Etymology

The name "atovaquone" is derived from its chemical structure, which is 2-(trans-4-(4'-chlorophenyl)cyclohexyl)-3-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone. The name "proguanil" comes from its chemical structure, which is 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-isopropylbiguanide.

Pharmacology

Atovaquone/proguanil works by interfering with the growth of parasites in the red blood cells of the human body. Atovaquone is a hydroxynaphthoquinone that inhibits mitochondrial electron transport, while proguanil, a biguanide, inhibits dihydrofolate reductase.

Side effects

Common side effects of atovaquone/proguanil include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Serious side effects may include anemia, neutropenia, and elevated liver enzymes.

Related terms

• Malaria
• Atovaquone
• Proguanil
• Antimalarial medication

See also

• List of antimalarial medication
• History of malaria

References

Atovaquone/proguanil Resources
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