Drug interactions
Cisplatin + Pentamidine
Severity: Major
Cisplatin and Pentamidine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Systemic pentamidine can cause kidney injury, electrolyte disturbances and dysglycemia, adding to the nephrotoxicity of cisplatin. The combination may worsen renal function and magnesium or potassium depletion.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cisplatin and Pentamidine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Cisplatin belongs to Oncology; Pentamidine belongs to Anti Parasitic.
Why it happens
Additive nephrotoxicity affecting renal tubules.
What to do
Avoid if alternatives exist; otherwise monitor serum creatinine, magnesium, potassium and glucose frequently and ensure adequate hydration.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Cisplatin
- Cidofovir + Cisplatin Contraindicated
- Adefovir + Cisplatin Major
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Cisplatin Major
- Amikacin + Cisplatin Major
- Amphotericin b deoxycholate + Cisplatin Major
- Amphotericin b + Cisplatin Major
Other interactions of Pentamidine
- Clomipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Pentamidine Contraindicated
- Moxifloxacin + Pentamidine Contraindicated
- Nortriptyline + Pentamidine Contraindicated
- Pentamidine + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cisplatin with Pentamidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cisplatin and Pentamidine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Systemic pentamidine can cause kidney injury, electrolyte disturbances and dysglycemia, adding to the nephrotoxicity of cisplatin. The combination may worsen renal function and magnesium or potassium depletion.
How serious is the interaction between Cisplatin and Pentamidine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid if alternatives exist; otherwise monitor serum creatinine, magnesium, potassium and glucose frequently and ensure adequate hydration.
What other medicines interact with Cisplatin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cisplatin with, for example, Cidofovir, Adefovir, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live. The full list is on the Cisplatin page.
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