Brand names Abelcet, AmBisome, Amphocil, Fungilin, Fungizone
Used in the following combined preparations None
General Information
Since amphotericin was introduced in the 1950s, it has come to be regarded as a
highly effective and powerful antifungal drug. When given by injection, it is
used to treat serious systemic fungal infections. It is also given by mouth to
treat candida (thrush) infections of the mouth or intestines, but it is not used
in vaginal candidiasis.
Information for Users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking
with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, lozenges, liquid, injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
Every 6 hours (by mouth); daily, usually over a 6-hour period (injection).
Dosage range
400-800mg daily (tablets and liquid); 40-80mg daily (lozenges); the dosage for
injection is determined individually.
Onset of effect
Improvement may be noticed after 2-4 days.
Duration of action
3-6 hours.
Treatment administered by injection is carefully supervised, usually in hospital,
because of potentially serious adverse effects. The new formulations of this
drug that have recently been introduced appear to be less toxic than the
original injection. Adverse reactions to the oral forms are rare.
Diet advice
When given by injection, this drug may reduce the levels of potassium and
magnesium in the blood. To correct this, mineral supplements may be recommended.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take oral dose as soon as you remember. Take your next dose when scheduled.
Stopping the drug
Take the full course as prescribed, Even if symptoms improve, the original
infection may still be present and symptoms may recur if treatment is stopped
too soon.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra oral dose is unlikely to be a cause for
concern. But if you notice unusual symptoms, notify your doctor.
Quick Reference
Drug group Antifungal drug
Overdose danger rating Low (oral)
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
Special Precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have a long-term kidney problem.
You have previously had an allergic
reaction to amphotericin.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
There is no evidence of risk from the oral forms of the drug. Injections are
given only when the infection very serious.
Breast-feeding
No evidence of risk from oral forms of the drug. It is not known whether the
drug passes into the breast milk when given by injection. Discuss with your
doctor.
Infants and children
Reduced dose may be necessary.
Over 60
No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
No known problems.
Alcohol
No known problems.
Possible Adverse Effects
Amphotericin is given by injection only under close medical supervision. Adverse
effects are thus carefully monitored and
promptly treated. Adverse effects from oral administration are rare.
Interactions (injection only)
Digitalis drugs Amphotericin may increase the toxicity of digoxin.
Diuretics Amphotericin increases the risk of low potassium levels with diuretics.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics Taken with amphotericin, these drugs increase the
likelihood of kidney damage.
Corticosteroids may increase loss of potassium from the body caused by
amphotericin.
Cyclosporin increases the likelihood of kidney damage.
Prolonged Use
Given by injection, the drug may cause a reduction in blood levels of potassium
and magnesium. It may also damage the kidneys and cause blood disorders.
Monitoring Regular blood tests to monitor kidney function are advised during
treatment by injection.
