|
|
|
|
|
Brand Name: Nebupent  |
Drug Class: Opportunistic Infection and Other Drugs
|
Pentamidine isethionate, also known as Nebupent, is a type of medicine called an antiprotozoal. Antiprotozoals help the body overcome infections caused by protozoa, which are microscopic organisms that can cause disease.
|
|
|
|
HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
|
|
|
|
Pentamidine isethionate was approved by the FDA on June 15, 1989, for use in the treatment of Pneumocystis jiroveci (formerly Pneumocystis carinii) pneumonia (PCP), an opportunistic infection in people with HIV/AIDS. Pentamidine is generally used only when patients with PCP cannot tolerate the first-line treatment, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim.
|
|
|
|
Dosage Form/Administration
|
|
|
|
Pentamidine isethionate comes in liquid form that is given by oral inhalation. It also comes in powder form that is mixed with sterile water and given by intravenous infusion into a vein or by injection into a muscle.
|
|
|
|
Contraindications
|
|
|
|
Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.
|
|
|
|
Possible Side Effects
|
|
|
|
Along with its desired effects, pentamidine isethionate can cause some unwanted effects. Symptoms reflecting serious adverse effects may include fruit-like breath odor, increased thirst, increased or decreased urination, change in appetite, elevated liver function tests, chills, cold sweats, headache, nausea, sore throat or fever, rapid or irregular pulse, or heartbeat abnormalities. Drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness, shakiness, blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, or unusual tiredness or weakness may also occur. Side effects to the skin may include unusual bleeding or bruising; cool, pale skin; flushed, dry skin; skin rash; redness; itching; fever; or pain, redness, or hardness at the site of injection. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.
|
|
|
|
Other side effects may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of the medicine. Less serious side effects of this medicine include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and unpleasant metallic taste. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.
|
|
|
|
Drug and Food Interactions
|
|
|
|
A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.
|
Clinical Trials
|
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Pentamidine.
|
Manufacturer Information
|
Pentamidine
Fujisawa Healthcare Inc
Parkway Center North / 3 Parkway North
Deerfield, IL 60015-2548
(800) 727-7003
Nebupent
American Pharmaceutical Partners
1501 East Woodfield Drive
Suite 300 East
Schaumburg, IL 60173-5837
(849) 969-2700
|
Updated April 9, 2007
|
|