Atovaquone

Definition

Atovaquone is an antimicrobial drug that inhibits the mitochondrial electron transport chain in protozoa and fungi. It is primarily used to treat and prevent Pneumocystis pneumonia and malaria.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Atovaquone works by inhibiting the mitochondrial electron transport chain, which disrupts ATP production in protozoa.
2. It is commonly used in combination with proguanil for the treatment of malaria.
3. Atovaquone is also effective against Pneumocystis jirovecii, a fungus causing pneumonia in immunocompromised patients.
4. The drug has a relatively low side-effect profile but can cause gastrointestinal disturbances.
5. Resistance to atovaquone can develop through mutations in the cytochrome b gene of the target pathogen.

Review Questions

• What mechanism does atovaquone use to exert its antimicrobial effects?
• For which two major infections is atovaquone commonly prescribed?
• How can resistance to atovaquone develop in microbes?

Related terms

Proguanil: An antimalarial drug that is often used in combination with atovaquone.

Pneumocystis jirovecii:

A fungus that causes pneumonia, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain: A series of complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions and couples this electron transfer with the transfer of protons across a membrane.