Brand: Pentam
Generic: Pentamidine
Pentam is an antimicrobial drug used for the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia which commonly occurs in immunocompromised patients. This drug can also be prescribed to medical problems caused by protozoa.
Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of this drug before starting treatment with it. This drug is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your healthcare professional.
Before using Pentam, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications.
This drug is not anticipated to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults. It is still unknown whether this drug works exactly the same way in younger adults or if it causes different side effects or problems in older people. Data comparing the use of pentamidine in the elderly with use in other age groups are still unavailable.
Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding. Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding.
Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.
Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.
Proper usage of Pentam requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. This drug must be given for the full time of treatment to ensure complete drug therapy. This drug works optimally when taken regularly for a maintained amount in the blood.
Inform your health care professional if you are on a low-sodium, low-sugar, or any other special diet, since most drugs contain more than their active ingredient, some products may have to be avoided.
The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients. The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed. The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug.
The dose in adults and children with Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia is based on body weight and must be determined by your healthcare professional. The usual dose is 4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight given once a day for fourteen to twenty-one days. This dose is injected slowly into a vein over a one to a two-hour period of time.
In using Pentam, you must be careful and take some precautions as advised by your doctor. It is recommended to receive this drug while lying down since sudden, severe hypotension may develop after receiving a dose of this drug. Your blood pressure will be monitored while you are receiving this drug and several times after the dose has been given until your blood pressure is stable.
This drug can cause leukopenia and thrombocytopenia which can increase the risk of infection or bleeding. Check with your healthcare professional immediately if you think you are getting a cold or any other infection, or if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising. Be careful when using regular toothbrushes, dental floss, or toothpicks.
Your medical health care professional, dentist, or nurse may recommend other ways to clean your teeth and gums. Check with your health care professional before having any dental work done. It is recommended to avoid using a safety razor and use an electric shaver instead. Also, be careful when using fingernail or toenail cutters.
As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Pentam. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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