Pentamidine is used in the prevention and treatment of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). It is also used as an
antiparasitic agent for the treatment of parasites. Pentamidine is used when a person has experienced adverse effects or
toxicity to other drugs, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole TMP/SMX (Bactrim, Septra and others) or dapsone.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
For the prevention of PCP, pentamidine is given by inhalation which involves breathing in the drug through a device called
a nebulizer which changes the drug into a mist that coats your lungs. It is given once every two to four weeks on a regular basis.
For the treatment of PCP, pentamidine can be given intravenously (I.V.) over 2-3 hours, or intramuscularly (I.M.) over a period of 14-21 days. The dose is determined by your weight.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of this medicine by more than a few days, return to your doctor to discuss the rescheduling of your treatment.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Inhalation of pentamidine can cause you to cough, especially if you smoke or have asthma. This can be controlled by
another medication called a bronchodilator which will help you to breathe easier. Pentamidine doesn't taste very good.
You may experience a bitter or metallic taste; sucking on sugar-free candy afterwards may help. You may have a burning
feeling in your throat and drinking some liquid will help. Dizziness, nausea, fatigue and a skin rash may also occur.
I.V. pentamidine can have serious side effects. Low blood pressure may occur and is why the drug is given while you are
lying down. Anemia (reduced number of red blood cells that can make you feel tired or short of breath), neutropenia ( a
reduced number of white blood cells that help you fight infection), liver, kidney and pancreas problems. Pentamidine can
produce hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) because of its effect on the pancreas. Blood tests and other lab tests must be
done regularly to watch for these side effects. I.M. specific side effects include pain and tenderness at the site if injection.
If you are experiencing any side effects, please discuss them with your healthcare team.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR
PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
The safety of pentamidine has not been established during breast feeding and pregnancy, therefore should only be used
for treatment and not prevention of PCP. Therefore, please inform your physician if you are pregnant.
How should this medication be STORED?
Pentamidine should be kept at room temperature (15-30C) and protected from light. Keep this drug safely away from children.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
