Medications and Drugs

1. Take the MRSA Quiz!
2. Strep or Sore Throat Slideshow Pictures
3. Infectious Mononucleosis Slideshow Pictures

Brand Names: Nebupent, Pentam 300

Generic Name: pentamidine (Pronunciation: pen TAM e deen)

• What is pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What are the possible side effects of pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What is the most important information I should know about pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• How should I take pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What happens if I overdose (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What should I avoid while taking pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• What other drugs will affect pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?

Pentamidine is a type of antibiotic that fights protozoa in the body.

Pentamidine is used to prevent and treat serious infections such as Pneumocystis pneumonia.

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

What are the possible side effects of pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?

Side effects with pentamidine are not common. Serious side effects include:

• an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; hives; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; rash; or fainting);
• blurred vision;
• chest pain or irregular heart beat;
• difficulty breathing;
• dizziness, confusion, fainting spells or excessive tiredness;
• drastic appetite changes;
• pain or irritation at the injection site;
• mouth ulcers or irritations;
• severe stomach pain;
• bleeding or bruising;
• severe headache;
• chills;
• increased thirst; or
• seizures.

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

• taste changes;
• diarrhea; or
• nausea or vomiting.

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 pentamidine (Nebupent, Pentam 300)?

Pentamidine may affect blood sugar levels. Contact your doctor if you experience any low blood sugar symptoms including

• increased appetite;
• headache;
• chills, pale skin, shakes, cold sweats; or
• anxiety.

Pentamidine may affect blood sugar levels. Contact your doctor if you experience any high blood sugar symptoms including

• increased thirst;
• loss of appetite;
• increase in amount or frequency or urination;
• fruity smelling breath; or
• drowsiness.

Your doctor may want you to have regular blood, heart function, and blood sugar evaluations during treatment with pentamidine to monitor progress and side effects.

Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill finder tool on RxList.