Pentacarinat Nebuliser Solution

How does it work?

Pentamidine isetionate is an antiprotozoal medicine used to prevent and treat chest infections caused by Pneumocystis carinii. This infection is called PCP (Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia). Pentamidine binds with the genetic material, DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid), of the protozoal cells. DNA is responsible for cell reproduction and growth, whilst RNA is responsible for producing proteins and fats that are essential for cell development and survival. Binding to the protozoal DNA and RNA, prevents protozoal cell reproduction and development, and as a result the protozoal cell dies. Hence this reduces the number of protozoal cells in the blood causing the infection. As a result the infection resolves. Pentamidine is inhaled directly into the lung, using a special device called a nebuliser.

What is it used for?

Treatment and prevention of pneumonia caused by pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), often seen in people with decreased immune system function

Warning!

Close monitoring for potential adverse effects is advised whilst receiving this medicine.

It is recommended that a bronchodilator such as salbutamol is used before administartion of inhaled pentamidine to prevent bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways)

Use with caution in

Anaemia

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function (hepatic dysfunction)

High blood pressure

High blood sugar levels

History of asthma

Individuals with a high risk of developing a condition, where air is trapped in the cavity between the lung surface and the chest wall (pneumothorax)

Low blood sugar levels

Low white blood cell count (leucopenia)

Reduced platelet count in the blood

Smokers

Not to be used in

Allergy to any of the active ingredients

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless considered essential by the doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Rash

Nausea

Fatigue

Low blood glucose level (hypoglycaemia)

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Decreased kidney function

Decreased appetite

Fever (pyrexia)

Alteration in taste

Breathing difficulties due to a narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm)

Wheezing

Shortness of breath

Cough

Pneumothorax

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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