Hello

I have had a few difficult days following a nebuliser (mist to lungs) dose of Pentamidine. These have included, racing heart, high anxiety, muscle tremors and muscle twitches.

I have had these effects for an hour or so a day (normally in late afternoon) since getting the drug 5 days ago, especially if I have over exerted or have not eaten (ie missed lunch by going for long country walk !)

Scared the hell out of my family on Christmas Eve by being floored by a serious attack, I thought I was having a fit or something and was very scared / in a panic. I understand these effects may have to do with low blood sugars.

Is this accurate ?

Started Sustiva / Viread and Emprivir 8 days ago, I also think the Sustiva may be raising anxiety as well.

I was given nebuliser as my CD4 counts have dropped from 200 to 160 in one month prior to beginning meds. Viral load 5000. No infections, health problems. 30 year old man in very good health ... (I think !)

Hanging in there, but having a tough ride with med side effects ...

thanks Jon

There are other (better) treatments than pentamidine for PCP treatment and/or prohylaxis. If you are having such troublesome side effects from the pentamidine, you might ask your doctor about the alternatives. Yes, pentamidine has been associated with hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which may explain some of your symptoms after treatment.

Sustiva can also cause signigicant side effects, including mood changes, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, and unusually vivid dreams.