Selectively inhibits mitochondrial electron transport at complex III in protozoa, collapsing the mitochondrial membrane potential and blocking pyrimidine biosynthesis. Active against Babesia, Pneumocystis, Toxoplasma, and Hepatozoon.
At a glance
Class
Antiprotozoal (Hydroxynaphthoquinone)
Storage
Store at room temperature 15–25°C; do not freeze oral suspension
Dosing
Used for Babesia gibsoni (combined with azithromycin 10 mg/kg q24h)
Used for cytauxzoonosis and babesiosis in cats (with azithromycin)
Safety
Babesia/Hepatozoon PCR post-treatmentHepatic enzymesGI tolerancePCV/hematocrit
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
Other markets
Malarone (with proguanil)
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Atovaquone?
Atovaquone is a antiprotozoal (hydroxynaphthoquinone) used in pets. Selectively inhibits mitochondrial electron transport at complex III in protozoa, collapsing the mitochondrial membrane potential and blocking pyrimidine biosynthesis. Active against Babesia, Pneumocystis, Toxoplasma, and Hepatozoon.
›What is Atovaquone used for in pets?
Atovaquone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for Babesia gibsoni (combined with azithromycin 10 mg/kg q24h); Used for cytauxzoonosis and babesiosis in cats (with azithromycin).
›What is the Atovaquone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Atovaquone is typically dosed as follows — Used for Babesia gibsoni (combined with azithromycin 10 mg/kg q24h): 13.3 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Atovaquone dose for cats?
For cats, Atovaquone is typically dosed as follows — Used for cytauxzoonosis and babesiosis in cats (with azithromycin): 15 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Atovaquone need a prescription?
Yes. Atovaquone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →