Amphoterecin

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

AmBisome, Fungizone

Drug type:

Antifungal

Prescription needed:

Yes, only used in-hospital

What does it do?

• Amphotericin is a highly effective and powerful antifungal drug
• Oral formulations have been discontinued, it is now only given by injection to treat serious systemic fungal infections

How should it be used?

Injections are carefully supervised because of potentially serious adverse effects and allergy.

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will administer a once daily intravenous dosage tailored to your need

How quickly will it start to work?

2–4 days

How long will the effects last?

Several days
            

When should I stop using it?

Course will be completed in hospital

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Close monitoring needed, may cause a reduction in blood levels of potassium and magnesium.          

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• Local: pain at the injection site
• Nausea, vomiting, headache, fever, unusual bleeding, muscle and joint pain, indigestion, and abdominal pain.

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: previous allergic reaction to amphotericin, liver/kidney problems
• Other medicines: Digitalis drugs, diuretics, aminoglycoside antibiotics, corticosteroids, ciclosporin
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: only used when the infection is very serious and benefit to mother outweighs the risk to foetus/baby
• Children: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No known problems
• Alcohol: No known problems