Medicines
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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Pentam 300, NebuPent
Pentamidine is an antiprotozoal medication used to treat and prevent certain parasitic infections, most notably *Pneumocystis jirovecii* pneumonia (PCP), a serious lung infection that commonly affects people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. It is also used for other protozoal infections like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) and leishmaniasis. Pentamidine belongs to the aromatic diamidine class of drugs and works by interfering with the parasite's DNA and RNA synthesis, ultimately leading to its death.
For the treatment and prevention of *Pneumocystis jirovecii* pneumonia (PCP), African trypanosomiasis, and leishmaniasis.
Outcome:
Increased risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity
Mechanism:
Additive renal toxicity
Outcome:
Increased risk of hypotension
Mechanism:
Additive hypotensive effects
Outcome:
Decreased absorption of pentamidine
Mechanism:
Altered gastrointestinal pH
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal pentamidine for improved efficacy and reduced toxicity (2025, 60% confidence)
Based on increasing prevalence of drug-resistant PCP, there is a 70% likelihood of new guidelines for pentamidine prophylaxis within the next 5 years.
Antiprotozoal
Aromatic diamidine