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About AMPHOTERICIN

This page contains brief details about the drug amphotericin b, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Amphotericin B is an antifungal antibiotic. FDA approved this medicine on 11th August 1997 for its medical use.

Mechanism of Action of Amphotericin B

The main binding action of Amphotericin B occurs with ergosterol in the cell membranes of susceptible fungi. This interaction induces modifications in membrane permeability, leading to the leakage of intracellular contents and eventual cell death.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

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Fungizone 50mg Injection
ABBOTT HEALTHCARE PVT LTD ₹295.10
Amphotech 50mg Injection
PROTECH TELELINKS ₹347.00
Affytericin B 50mg Injection
AFFY PHARMA PVT LTD ₹324.00
Ampho-B 50mg Injection
VHB LIFE SCIENCES INC ₹296.00

Uses of Amphotericin B

This medication is employed for the treatment of fungal infections affecting one or more internal organs. Additionally, it is utilized to address suspected fungal infections in individuals experiencing elevated temperature and neutropenia (reduced white blood cell count). It is also prescribed for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease occurring in specific populations.

Amphotericin B Drug administaration and Dosage available

Amphotericin B Injection

In a hospital or clinic setting, a healthcare professional such as a doctor or nurse will administer the medication to you through an intravenous infusion drip directly into your vein. It is important not to self-administer the injection. The dosage and duration of the treatment will be determined by your doctor, taking into consideration factors such as the severity of your disease, body weight, and other relevant factors.

Amphotericin B gel

Adhere to your doctor’s guidance at all times. Before applying the medication, ensure that the affected area is clean and dry. This medication is intended for external use only. Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area, and there is no need to cover it with a plaster or bandage. Remember to wash your hands before and after application. Avoid applying this medication near your eyes, including the eyelids, nose, and mouth.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Amphotericin B

Warnings

If you are allergic to Amphotericin B or any of the components in the medication, refrain from receiving this injection. Notify your physician of a history of severe allergic reactions, kidney or liver issues, or if you are undergoing dialysis. Inform your doctor about low potassium levels. Be aware that this injection may lead to severe infusion reactions, including flushing, itching, nausea, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, and airways, as well as difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, promptly inform your physician.

Precautions

Before starting your initial treatment, your doctor may administer a small amount of Amphotericin B to check for allergic reactions. Note that this medicine contains sugar in each vial, so inform your doctor if you have diabetes. Also, notify your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before commencing the treatment.

The dosage and quantity of the Amphotericin B gel will be determined by your doctor based on your disease condition. Prior to application, ensure that the affected area is clean and dry. Thoroughly wash your hands before and after using this medication. It is important to continue taking this medication even if your symptoms improve to prevent reinfection.

Side Effects

Typical side effects associated with Amphotericin B injection include skin rash, elevated blood sugar levels, reduced potassium levels, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anemia, insomnia, shortness of breath, fever, chills, or shivering. More severe side effects may include cardiac arrest, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe skin reactions, and acute kidney injury.

The predominant side effects observed with Amphotericin B gel are skin itching, swelling, redness, burning, and irritation.

Word Of Advice

Store below (25°C) and keep the injection out of reach of children and pets. This medication has the potential to cause kidney damage; inform your doctor if you have kidney problems. Treatment for certain infections may require the continuation of this medication for several weeks to months. Discontinuing the medication prematurely may lead to a recurrence of the infection. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. In the case of a missed dose of the gel, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and return to your regular dosing schedule.

Frequently Asked Question

Amphotericin B is a medication used to treat severe fungal infections, such as invasive or systemic fungal infections. It is a lipid-based formulation of Amphotericin B, designed to enhance drug delivery and minimize side effects.
While Amphotericin B is generally well-tolerated, it can still have side effects. Common side effects may include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, increased blood sugar levels, muscle or joint pain, and infusion-related reactions. In rare cases, it may cause more serious side effects such as cardiac arrest, kidney damage or allergic reactions.
Amphotericin B can be used in babies more than 1 years old, but the dosage and administration may vary depending on the child’s age, weight, and specific medical condition. It is crucial to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and closely monitor the child’s response to treatment.
Amphotericin B is less toxic because it is less nephrotoxic. Low toxicity of this medicine may be due to the small number of binding receptors in the drug.