Treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in HIV Patients

Introduction to Treatment

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that this treatment regimen should be continued for the full course to ensure complete eradication of the infection 1

For patients who cannot tolerate TMP-SMX, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends alternative options, including intravenous pentamidine (4 mg/kg once daily) 1

Common adverse effects of TMP-SMX include rash, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated liver enzymes 2
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that if severe adverse reactions occur (anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome), the drug should be permanently discontinued 3

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that complete blood counts with differential and platelet counts should be monitored regularly 3
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that renal function and electrolytes should be monitored, particularly in patients with underlying renal impairment 1
After successful treatment, all HIV patients with a history of PCP should continue on lifelong prophylaxis to prevent recurrence 3