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To compare the efficacy and safety of dapsone versus atovaquone in preventing or delaying the onset of histologically proven or probable Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in HIV-infected patients with CD4 counts <= 200 cells/mm3 or <= 15 percent of the total lymphocyte count who are intolerant to trimethoprim and/or sulfonamides. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), which is effective for secondary PCP prophylaxis, is associated with allergic manifestations and side effects that limit its use. Patients who are intolerant of TMP/SMX require an effective alternative. Dapsone and atovaquone have both shown promise as PCP prophylactic agents. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), which is effective for secondary PCP prophylaxis, is associated with allergic manifestations and side effects that limit its use. Patients who are intolerant of TMP/SMX require an effective alternative. Dapsone and atovaquone have both shown promise as PCP prophylactic agents. Patients are randomized to receive either dapsone or atovaquone daily, with follow-up at the clinic every 4 months.
Inclusion Criteria Concurrent Medication: Strongly recommended: * Pyrimethamine (50 mg) and folinic acid (15 mg) weekly in patients receiving dapsone who have CD4 count \< 100 cells/mm3 and are toxoplasmosis seropositive. Patients must have: * Working diagnosis of HIV infection. * CD4 count \<= 200 cells/mm3 or \<= 15 percent of total lymphocyte count at any time in the past OR a history of PCP. * History of intolerance of trimethoprim and/or sulfonamides that required permanent discontinuation. NOTE: * Pregnant patients are eligible at the clinician's discretion. Prior Medication: Allowed: * Prior PCP prophylaxis. Exclusion Criteria Co-existing Condition: Patients with the following symptoms or conditions are excluded: * Active pneumocystosis. Concurrent Medication: Excluded: * PCP prophylaxis (other than study drug) or any medication with potential anti-PCP activity. Patients with the following prior conditions are excluded: * Known treatment-limiting reaction to dapsone or atovaquone.