Hi, Has anyone tried using mepron/zithromax for Babesia? Dr wants me to try for 3 weeks but apprehensive to try an unknown. Thank you
Posted by TF (Member # 14183) on :
That is the classic treatment for babesiosis. It is what is prescribed for nearly all patients. You will most likely need to take it for much longer than 3 weeks.
Here are 2 references for you re. treatment of babs:
"the current regimen of choice for Babesiosis is the combination of atovaquone (Mepron, Malarone), 750 mg bid, plus an erythromycin-type drug, such as azithromycin (Zithromax), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or telithromycin (Ketek) in standard doses. This combination was initially studied in animals, and then applied to Humans with good success. Fewer than 5% of patients have to halt treatment due to side effects, and the success rate is clearly better than that of clindamycin plus quinine.
The duration of treatment with atovaquone combinations for Babesiosis varies depending on the degree of infection, duration of illness before diagnosis, the health and immune status of the patient, and whether the patient is co-infected with Borrelia burgdorferi. Typically, a three-week course is prescribed for acute cases, while chronic, longstanding infections with significant morbidity and co-infection will require a minimum of four months of therapy. Relapses have occurred, and retreatment is occasionally needed."