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Aerosol Pentamidine (AP)

By Mark Cichocki, R.N., About.com

Updated: June 27, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Susan Olender, MD

Classification:


Used to decrease the risk of acquiring PCP pneumonia in patients unable to take Bactrim or Dapsone.

Form:


300mg powder that is reconsitituted with sterile water.

Dose:

300mg once per month given as an inhaled aerosol after being reconstituted with sterile water.

Instructions:


  • Pentamidine is inhaled as an aerosol.
  • The powder is dissolved into a sterile water then given by way of nebulizer over 30 to 40 minutes.
  • May be treated with a bronchodilator such as albuterol to prevent respiratory side effects.
  • Notify your doctor of all medications being taken prior to starting Pentamidine.

Side effects to report to your doctor:


  • coughing, wheezing, or chest tightening during treatment (increased risk in people who smoke smokers)
  • metallic taste or mouth irritation after treatment.
  • pancreatitis (symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting)

For more information:


For more information on Pentamidine try About.com's Drug Finder.

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