Pentam

Pentam - General Information

Antiprotozoal agent effective in trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and some fungal infections; used in treatment of pneumocystis pneumonia in HIV-infected patients. It may cause diabetes mellitus, central nervous system damage, and other toxic effects. [PubChem]

Pharmacology of Pentam

Pentam is an antiprotozoal agent. It is an aromatic diamidine, and is known to have activity against Pneumocystis carinii. The exact nature of its antiprotozoal action is unknown. in vitro studies with mammalian tissues and the protozoan Crithidia oncopelti indicate that the drug interferes with nuclear metabolism producing inhibition of the synthesis of DNA, RNA, phospholipids and proteins. Little is known about the drug's pharmacokinetics. The medication is also useful in Leishmaniasis and in prophylaxis against sleeping sickness caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. Hydration before treatment lessens the incidence and severity of side effects, which include liver or kidney dysfunction, hypertension, hypotension, hypoglycemia, hypocalemia, leukopenia, thrombcytopenia, anemia, and allergic reaction. It is generally well-tolerated.

Pentam for patients

Pentam Interactions

Pentam Contraindications

Once the diagnosis of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia has been firmly established, there are no absolute contraindications to the use of pentamidine isethionate.

Additional information about Pentam

Pentam Indication: For the treatment of pneumonia due to Pneumocystis carinii.
Mechanism Of Action: The mode of action of pentamidine is not fully understood. It is thought that the drug interferes with nuclear metabolism producing inhibition of the synthesis of DNA, RNA, phospholipids, and proteins.
Drug Interactions: Mesoridazine Increased risk of cardiotoxicity and arrhythmias
Thioridazine Increased risk of cardiotoxicity and arrhythmias
Ziprasidone Increased risk of cardiotoxicity and arrhythmias
Quinupristin This combination presents an increased risk of toxicity
Food Interactions: Not Available
Generic Name: Pentamidine
Synonyms: Pentamidine Isethionate; Pentamide; 4, 4'-Diamidinodiphenoxypentane; PNT; 1,3-bis(4-amidinophenoxy)pentane
Drug Category: Trypanocidal Agents; Antiprotozoal Agents; Antifungal Agents
Drug Type: Small Molecule; Approved

Other Brand Names containing Pentamidine: NebuPent; Pentacarinat; Pentam; Pentam 300; Pneumopent;
Absorption: Absorbed poorly through the gastrointestinal tract and is usually administered parenterally.
Toxicity (Overdose): Symptoms of overdose include pain, nausea, anorexia, hypotension, fever, rash, bad taste in mouth, confusion/hallucinations, dizziness, and diarrhea.
Protein Binding: 69%
Biotransformation: Hepatic.
Half Life: 9.1-13.2 hours
Dosage Forms of Pentam: Powder, for solution Intravenous
Chemical IUPAC Name: 4-[5-(4-carbamimidoylphenoxy)pentoxy]benzenecarboximidamide
Chemical Formula: C19H24N4O2
Pentamidine on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentamidine
Organisms Affected: Pneumocystis carinii