Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Nipent

Generic Name: pentostatin (Pronunciation: PEN toe stah tin)

• What is pentostatin (Nipent)?
• What are the possible side effects of pentostatin (Nipent)?
• What is the most important information I should know about pentostatin (Nipent)?
• Who should not take pentostatin (Nipent)?
• How should I take pentostatin (Nipent)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Nipent)?
• What happens if I overdose (Nipent)?
• What should I avoid while taking pentostatin (Nipent)?
• What other drugs will affect pentostatin (Nipent)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is pentostatin (Nipent)?

Pentostatin is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Pentostatin interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Pentostatin is used to treat a specific type of blood cancer (hairy cell leukemia).

Pentostatin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of pentostatin (Nipent)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; difficulty breathing; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
• nervous system problems, such as a burning, pricking, or tingling feeling, or twitching;
• severe skin rash;
• confusion , dizziness, extreme sleepiness;
• signs of infection such as fever; chills, or sore throat;
• sudden shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or increased cough; or
• unusual bleeding or bruising.

Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite;
• mouth sores;
• itching;
• muscle or joint aches and pains; or
• headache.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about pentostatin (Nipent)?

Pentostatin should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of pentostatin including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); blood and bone marrow problems; kidney problems; liver problems; lung problems; nervous system problems; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with pentostatin.

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