Effect of Charcoal Hemoperfusion on Clearance of Pentamidine Isethionate After Accidental Overdose

Abstract

Background: Pentamidine isethionate is an antimicrobial agent effective in the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis. Severe and fatal toxicity is reported with pentamidine use. Case Report: A patient received an accidental overdose (40 times the prescribed dose) of intravenous pentamidine due to a pharmacy mixing error. Charcoal hemoperfusion was utilized to attempt to lower the serum concentration of pentamidine and lessen toxicity. Results: Measurement of pentamidine concentrations in the patient's blood demonstrates a beneficial effect of hemoperfusion. Conclusions: Charcoal hemoperfusion may represent a useful modality in the management of pentamidine isethionate overdosage