About pentamidine isetionate
Antiprotozoal and antifungal medicine
Used for
- Treats Pneumocystis pneumonia when other treatments are unsuitable.
- Prevents Pneumocystis pneumonia in people at high risk.
- Treats certain forms of leishmaniasis and African trypanosomiasis.
Usual adult dose
Pneumocystis pneumonia: 4 mg/kg once daily for 14–21 days. Other uses require specialist regimens.
Usual dose in children
Specialist dosing varies by infection and is based on body weight.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure, dizziness, or fainting
- Kidney damage or changes in blood tests
- Low blood sugar, sometimes followed by high blood sugar
- Nausea, vomiting, or injection-site reactions
Important warnings
- Given by injection or infusion under medical supervision.
- Kidney, blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood counts need monitoring.
- Serious allergic reactions and heart rhythm problems can occur.
- Use caution with kidney disease or medicines that affect kidneys or heart rhythm.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; pregnancy safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; a clinician should assess risks and benefits.
Interactions
- Other kidney-damaging medicines may increase kidney injury.
- Medicines that prolong the QT interval may increase heart rhythm risk.
- Diabetes medicines may need review because blood sugar can change.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.