How does it work?

Pentamidine isetionate is an antiprotozoal medicine used in the treatment of a number of protozoal infections. These include Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia (PCP), Leishmaniasis and Trypanosoma infections. 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 lipids 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 given by slow infusion into the veins (intravenously) or muscle (intramuscularly). It can also be inhaled directly into the lung, using a special device called a nebuliser.

What is it used for?

Sleeping sickness (trypanosoma infection)

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

Treatment of an infectious tropical disease transmitted by sandflies (visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis)

Warning!

Blood sugar levels should be checked regularly when taking this medicine.

It is recommended that people taking this medicine have regular blood tests to monitor their liver function.

Blood calcium levels and kidney function must be monitored whilst taking this medicine.

Regular electrocardiograms (ECGs) to monitor the function of the heart during treatment is recommended.

Individuals taking this medicine should be monitored for changes in blood pressure.

Individuals taking this medicine are advised to monitor blood cell counts regularly.

Use with caution in

Anaemia

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function (hepatic dysfunction)

High blood pressure

High blood sugar levels

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Low blood sugar levels

Low white blood cell count (leucopenia)

Reduced platelet count in the blood

Not to be used in

No known conditions

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

Blood disorders

Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Low blood calcium level (hypocalcaemia)

Irritation in area of use

High blood potassium level (hyperkalaemia)

Changes in blood sugar levels

Dizziness

Nausea and vomiting

Alteration in taste

Kidney failure

Disturbances of liver function

Fainting (syncope)

Abnormal heart beats (arrhythmias)

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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