Skip to main content

Nebupent

Generic name: pentamidinepen-TAM-e-deen ]
Brand names: Nebupent, Pentam 300
Drug classes: Inhaled anti-infectives, Miscellaneous antibiotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 4, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Nebupent?

Nebupent is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.

Nebupent is used to prevent and treat pneumonia caused by Pneumocystis jiroveci (carinii).

Nebupent may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Nebupent side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Nebupent may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Nebupent may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Nebupent if you are allergic to it.

To make sure Nebupent is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Nebupent will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether pentamidine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using Nebupent.

Inhaled Nebupent should not be given to a child without the advice of a doctor.

How is Nebupent given?

Nebupent is given either as an injection, or as in inhaled medicine using a nebulizer. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Nebupent is a powder medicine that must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it as an injection or with a nebulizer. If you are using this medicine at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine. Use only the diluent provided with your medication.

To use Nebupent as an injection:

To use Nebupent with a nebulizer:

If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar carefully while you are receiving Nebupent. This medicine can raise or lower your blood sugar.

While using Nebupent, you may need frequent blood tests. Your heart function may need to be checked using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG).

Store unmixed medicine at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Mixed medicine must be used within a certain number of hours, depending on the diluent. Carefully follow the mixing and storage instructions provided with your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions.

Nebupent contains no preservative. Throw away any unused medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of Nebupent.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using Nebupent?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect Nebupent?

Other drugs may interact with pentamidine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.