Pentamidine Injection (PENTAMIDINE ISETHIONATE - INJECTION)

Instructions

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Follow package direction for diluting medicine with IV fluids or as instructed by your doctor or nurse.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Use this medicine at the same time each day.

Space doses evenly to keep a steady amount of medicine in the body.

Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.

Brand Name(s): Pentam

Generic Name: Pentamidine Isethionate

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If you drink more than a few alcoholic beverages each day, ask your doctor whether you should be on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea and vomiting
• changes in taste or unpleasant taste

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bleeding or bruising
• change in blood sugar level
• fainting
• fast or irregular heart beats
• low blood pressure
• signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
• mood changes
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.