Sometimes, fungal infections in our bodies can be so serious that they can't be cured with regular pills or creams. These infections can sometimes spread to the bloodstream, lungs, or even the brain. Doctors use this powerful drug called Amphotericin B to control serious, life-threatening fungal infections. This is a drug that is often given intravenously in a hospital, under the direct supervision of a doctor. So today, let's talk about this drug, its possible side effects, and what you need to know as a person receiving this treatment.
What kind of medicine is Amphotericin B?
Simply put, Amphotericin B is an antifungal, meaning it kills fungal cells and controls the infection . But it is not a medicine for a common fungal infection. Because it is so strong, it is mainly used for serious fungal infections that have not responded to other medications and that affect the body's internal organs. You may find this medicine under brand names like `Amphocin` or `Fungizone`.
Your doctor may prescribe this medicine for other reasons as well, so if you have any questions, it's best to ask your doctor about it.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before starting this treatment, it is extremely important to tell your doctor your complete health history. This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- Heart disease: If you have heart disease.
- Kidney disease: This is very important if you have any kidney disease, as this medicine can have some effect on the kidneys.
- Recent surgeries or other medical treatments: If you have recently had any medical treatment, please tell us about it.
- Allergies: If you have any allergies to Amphotericin B or any other medicine, food, or dye, you must tell us.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child.
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether to give you this medicine or not, or whether to change the dosage.
How is this medicine administered to the body?
This medicine is given as an infusion into a vein, similar to saline. This is usually given in a hospital or clinic by a nurse or doctor. They will monitor your condition closely during the treatment.
Very rarely, some patients may need to receive this treatment at home. If this happens, you will be trained carefully on how to prepare and administer this medicine. Remember to take only the prescribed dose, at the prescribed time, as your doctor tells you .
Special note: If you are receiving treatment at home, never throw used needles and syringes in the trash . Only put them in a specially provided "sharps container." If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
Is this medicine given to children?
Yes, this medicine can be given to children if necessary. However, it requires special care and supervision. Talk to your child's pediatrician about this.
What to do if the medication dose is increased?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Other medications that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
Some medications can cause serious reactions when taken together with Amphotericin B. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, not just those prescribed by your doctor, but also those you buy from a pharmacy, traditional medicines, herbs, and vitamins.
- A medicine that should never be taken together:
- `cidofovir`
- Other medications that can cause problems:
- Some intravenous antibiotics
- `corticotropin`
- `cyclosporine`
- `digoxin`
- `flucytosine`
- Other fungicides
- Some medications given for cancer
- Muscle relaxants
- `pentamidine`
- Steroids such as `prednisone` or `cortisone`
This list is not complete. The safest thing to do is to tell your doctor about everything you take.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Since this is a powerful medicine, some side effects may occur. While some are normal, some should be reported immediately. The table below provides a clear understanding of these.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor/nurse immediately | Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist |
|---|---|
|
|
Remember, if you experience any unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, tell your doctor about them as well. Don't keep anything to yourself.
Take-Home Message
- Amphotericin B is a very powerful drug used only for serious fungal infections that are not treatable with regular medications.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have (especially kidney and heart disease) and all medications you are taking .
- This medicine is given into a vein in a hospital . If you experience any unusual symptoms (such as fever, difficulty breathing, or vomiting), tell your nurse or doctor immediately .
- This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone else for any reason.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, talk to your doctor about it openly .
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