Drug
Pentamidine
Pronounced
"pen-TAM-ih-deen eye-seh-THIGH-oh-nate"
Uses
Pentamidine is used to treat a serious lung infection (Pneumocystis pneumonia-PCP) in people with immune system problems, including people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Pentamidine belongs to a class of drugs known as antiprotozoals. It works by killing the organism that causes the infection.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for certain parasite infections (such as leishmaniasis, trypanosomiasis, babesiosis).
How to Use This Medication
This medication is given by injection into a vein or muscle as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. If it is given by injection into a vein, it is slowly injected over 1 to 2 hours. Tell your doctor right away if you notice leakage, redness, or pain during an injection into your vein. If this medication is given by injection into a muscle, it is usually injected into the buttock/hip area.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.