Pentostatin

Details of the Drug

Generic Name:: Pentostatin
Pronunciation:: pen-toh-STAT-in
Drug Type:: Antimetabolite
How the Drug is Given:: Intravenously (IV)
Names:: Nipent®; Pentostatin

Indications and Usage

Pentostatin is FDA approved as a single-agent treatment for both untreated and alfa-interferon-refractory hairy cell leukemia patients with active disease as defined by clinically significant anemia, neutropenia (abnormally low white blood count), thrombocytopenia (reduced platelet count), or disease-related symptoms.

Side effects needing medical attention

Fever; chills; bone pain; weakness and fatigue; lack of coordination, especially in walking; skin disorders; unusual decrease or increase in urination; cough; inflammation of the eye; flulike symptoms; confusion; depression; dizziness; drowsiness; nausea and vomiting; decreased appetite; diarrhea; headache.

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