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Pentostatin ( pen-toe-STAT-in ) (Nipent®) What is this medication used for? Pentostatin treats graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and certain types of leuekmias.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given? • Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are common side effects? • Fever • Feeling tired (fatigue, malaise) • Stomach (abdominal) pain • Gas • Nausea • Vomiting • Loss of appetite • Cough • Runny nose • Diarrhea • Low white blood cell count (neutropenia) • Low red blood cell count (low hemoglobin, anemia)
Special instructions: • Report to your healthcare provider any burning, pain, redness, or swelling at the infusion site. • This medication increases the risk of getting an infection. Avoid crowds and people who are sick. • Call your healthcare provider if a fever or any signs of infection develop. • Do not receive any vaccinations while taking this medication. • This medication can cause easy bleeding; be careful and use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor instead of a bladed razor. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm. Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed.
• Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) What are less common side effects? • Allergic reaction • Changes to gums and teeth
• Muscle pain • Severe rash
• Chest pain, pressure, or fast heart rate • Low blood pressure (hypotension) • Dizziness • Severe infection • Inflammation of a vein (phlebitis)
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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