Pentamidine
Pentam is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to prevent and treat Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) in immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS. It is also indicated for certain parasitic infections including leishmaniasis and African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness). The medication is available as an inhalation solution for prevention and as injectable forms for treatment of active infections.
Pentam is an antiparasitic medication used to prevent and treat PCP pneumonia in immunocompromised patients and certain parasitic infections.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 495527
- Generic
- Pentam
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Pentam is indicated for the prevention and treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with HIV/AIDS. It is also used for the treatment of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis, as well as African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense.
Pentamidine isethionate works by inhibiting the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein in susceptible organisms, leading to their death. For Pneumocystis pneumonia, it is believed to interfere with mitochondrial function and oxidative phosphorylation in the organism.
Pentam should be administered with caution in patients with renal impairment, hypotension, hypoglycemia, or cardiac arrhythmias. Common adverse effects include nephrotoxicity, hypoglycemia, and injection site reactions. It should only be used when clinically indicated due to its potential for serious side effects.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy