Amphotericin B
Molecule Description
Amphotericin B is an antifungal medicine. It is used for the treatment of serio
us fungal infections, kala-azar, and fungal infections of the skin. Amphotericin works by slowing down the growth of fungus and helps in preventing the spread of infection. It comes as an injection, gel, and drops.
Uses of Amphotericin B
- Serious fungal infections
- Kala azar (visceral leishmaniasis)
- Fungal infection of skin
Contraindications of Amphotericin B
When should one not use Amphotericin B
Known allergy to amphotericin B.
Side effects of Amphotericin B
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Fever
- Chills
- Rashes
- Itching
- Decrease in serum potassium levels
- Pain or swelling at the injection site
Precautions and Warnings of Amphotericin B
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take amphotericin B during pregnancy?
A:
There is limited safety information available about use of amphotericin B in pregnant women. Consult your doctor for advice.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take amphotericin B while breastfeeding?
A:
It is not known if amphotericin B passes in breastmilk. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are a lactating woman.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I am taking amphotericin B?
A:
Amphotericin B does not affect your ability to drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with amphotericin B?
A:
Although the interaction of amphotericin B with alcohol is not known, it is advisable to consult your doctor if you drink too often.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have a liver or kidney-related disorder.
- You experience skin allergy and rashes after taking this medicine.
- Amphotericin B must not be used for superficial fungal infections.
- When on treatment with amphotericin B, your doctor may ask you to perform blood tests to monitor your potassium, magnesium levels and kidney function.
Mode of Action of Amphotericin B
How Does It Work?
Amphotericin B binds to the fungal cells and makes them more porous that leads to the leakage of cell components and fungal cell death.
Interactions of Amphotericin B
Interactions with other medicines
Certain medicines can affect the way amphotericin B works or amphotericin B itself can alter the action of other medicines taken at the same time. Hence, it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Arpit Verma
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking amphotericin B?
- Inform the doctor about your detailed medical and surgical history.
- Inform your physician if you have any of the following conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, electrolyte imbalance.
- If you have received blood transfusions, are receiving any radiation treatment or cancer medications, are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
Q: How is amphotericin B used?
A: The commonly used route is IV (intravenous) given by doctor or nurse into the vein over 30- 60 minutes period in drip infusion. It is given after the test dose to check for allergy. If no allergic reactions develop, the doctor or nurse will continue the injection. Topically amphotericin B is used as gel or drops.
References
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Disclaimer
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