Drugs & Vitamins

Pentamidine Inhalation Active Ingredients: Pentamidine Inhalation Representative Names: NebuPent What is pentamidine inhalation? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with pentamidine? What side effects may I notice from using pentamidine? What should I watch for while taking pentamidine? Where can I keep my medicine? What is pentamidine inhalation? (Back to top) PENTAMIDINE (NebuPent®) is an antiprotozoal agent. Pentamidine prevents Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). This infection commonly affects patients whose immune systems are not working properly such as HIV-infected (AIDS) patients. Generic pentamidine inhalation is not yet available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •anemia or blood disorders •asthma •dehydration •diabetes •heart or circulation problems •kidney disease •pancreatitis •recent radiation therapy •an unusual or allergic reaction to pentamidine, other medicines, foods, dyed, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Pentamidine is for inhalation. The inhalation may be given by a nurse or respiratory therapist as part of home health-care services. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Pentamidine for inhalation is dissolved in sterile water for injection and used in a Respirgard II nebulizer. An inhalation once every 4 weeks is generally enough to prevent infection. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with pentamidine? (Back to top) Interactions with pentamidine inhalation have not been reported; monitor blood glucose if you are on medications for diabetes. Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from using pentamidine? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •difficulty breathing, wheezing •dizziness •chest pain or tightness •chills •cough •headache •loss of appetite •muscle pain •night sweats •redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth •skin rash, itching •stomach pain •unusual tiredness or weakness Call your prescriber or health care professional s soon as you can if you get any of these side effects. Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •changes in taste (metallic taste) •diarrhea •nausea, vomiting What should I watch for while taking pentamidine? (Back to top) Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you develop an infection. While you are using pentamidine you will need regular blood; blood sugar levels; and heart function checks. Keep pentamidine out of the eyes. Avoid smoking cigarettes. Smoking can increase coughing, wheezing and difficulty in breathing during pentamidine inhalation. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Freshly prepare the solution for inhalation. Keep at room temperature, protect from light, and use within 48 hours. Throw away any unused portion. Last Updated:09/05/2000 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.