Atovaquone-D4 (4-chlorophenyl-2,3,5,6-d4)

Atovaquone-D4 (4-chlorophenyl-2,3,5,6-d4) is a deuterated form of the antimalarial drug Atovaquone. It is used to treat and prevent malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Atovaquone-D4 is a lipophilic compound that works by inhibiting mitochondrial electron transport in the parasite, thereby preventing energy production and eventually leading to the death of the parasite. Atovaquone-D4 is administered orally in the form of tablets or suspension. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the infection, age, weight, and medical history of the patient. Atovaquone-D4 is usually given in combination with other antimalarial drugs such as proguanil or pyrimethamine to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of the parasite. The chemical structure of Atovaquone-D4 is similar to that of ubiquinone, a natural component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Atovaquone-D4 is a substituted naphthoquinone with a chlorophenyl group at position 4. The deuterated form of the compound contains four deuterium atoms, which replace four hydrogen atoms in the molecule. Atovaquone-D4 has a molecular weight of 315.81 g/mol and a melting point of 210-214°C. It is slightly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and chloroform. The compound is stable under normal storage conditions and has a shelf-life of several years. Atovaquone-D4 is a potent antimalarial drug with low toxicity and is widely used in the treatment of malaria in both adults and children.