Amphotericin B

Amphotericin B falls under the drug class known as polyenes. Its mechanism of action includes binding to ergosterol, which is located in the fungal cell membrane. This leads to changes in cell permeability and ultimately cell death.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Amphotericin B. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Amphotericin B:

• This medication is injected intravenously and can be administered over 2 -6 hours.
• If you miss a dose or an appointment to receive your dose, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

The most common side effects of Amphotericin B include:

• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Chills
• Skin rash
• Headache
• Anemia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low potassium level

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Amphotericin B. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Nephrotoxicity or renal toxicity: reduced urination, weakness, and chest pain
• Brain disease: seizure, loss of coordination, and facial drooping
• Severe allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of the face or lips
• Infusion reaction: hypotension, headache, and loss of appetite
• Renal tubular acidosis

These are not all of the possible side effects of Amphotericin B. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Amphotericin B, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Hypersensitivity to this medication
• Kidney impairment
• You are receiving leukocyte (white blood cell) transfusions
• Low electrolyte levels, including magnesium (hypomagnesemia) and potassium (hypokalemia)
• Liver damage
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

Boxed Warning

• Conventional IV amphotericin B may be confused with liposomal amphotericin B products that use higher doses.
• This medication should be primarily used for the treatment of patients with life-threatening fungal infections.

• Known allergy to Amphotericin B or any of its inactive ingredients

How long it takes Amphotericin B to work will depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated. For some infections, you may only take it for a couple of weeks. For others, you may need to take it for several months.

When Amphotericin B is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Digoxin
• Cyclosporine
• Antifungal agents, including ketoconazole, flucytosine, and fluconazole
• Chemotherapy
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics, including gentamicin
• Zidovudine
• Corticosteroids
• Pentamidine

The available formulations include liposomal Amphotericin B and conventional Amphotericin B. The extent and severity of the side effects can differ between the different formulations.

This medication will be stored in a healthcare provider’s clinic or in a hospital. It should be kept out of the reach of children.

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Amphotericin B is Gilead Sciences.

There are lower-cost alternatives for the brand names Amphotericin B, Abelcet, Ambisome, Amphotec, and Fungizone.

Before stopping this medication, consult your healthcare provider.

It is not known if Amphotericin B is safe to use while pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if Amphotericin B passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.