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Pentamidine ( pen-TAM-i-deen ) (NebuPent®, Pentam® 300) What is this medication used for? Pentamidine helps prevent and treat Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP), a fungal infection of the lungs. This infection may occur in patients with weakened immune systems.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given? • Into the vein (IV) or venous access device
What are the less common side effects? • Kidney failure • Dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion • Irritation to vein or skin • Heart failure,abnormal heart rhythm, or abnormal heart rate • Metallic taste in mouth • Loss of appetite • Seizures • Severe rash • Chills or night sweats • Abnormal levels of electrolytes such as calcium Special instructions: • A healthcare provider should be informed if the patient is diabetic or experiences shortness of breath, dizziness, or confusion. • Call your healthcare provider if unusual bruising or bleeding occurs after pentamidine use.
• Into the muscle (IM) • Inhaled via nebulizer
What are the common side effects? • Changes to kidney and liver function tests • Low blood pressure (hypotension) • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach (abdominal) pain • Decrease in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) • Increase in blood sugar (hyperglycemia) • Cough or bronchospasm (when medicine is inhaled via nebulizer)
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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