Sometimes we have to deal with infections that are not like the common cold or flu, but are a little more serious, spreading inside the body. Especially when some fungal infections or yeast infections spread to the internal organs of the body, ordinary medicine may not be enough to cure it. Today, we are talking about a special, powerful medicine that doctors use in such severe cases.
What is this medicine called Amphotericin B Liposomal?
Simply put, it's an antifungal medication . This means it can kill disease-causing fungi that have entered the body. This isn't just a medication you'd usually give for a minor fungal infection on your skin. It's used to treat serious and life-threatening fungal infections that have spread to your bloodstream, lungs, brain, or other internal organs.
The word "Liposomal" refers to the special way this medicine is made. It is as if the drug molecule is wrapped inside a small fat bubble (liposome). This method allows the medicine to easily reach the site of infection in the body and reduce side effects that can occur in organs such as the kidneys. In Sri Lanka, this medicine is available under the brand name `AmBisome`.
Things to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Because this is a powerful medication, it is very important to tell your doctor about your complete health history before starting treatment. Be sure to mention these things in particular.
- If you have a weakened immune system , a condition that reduces your ability to fight disease (e.g. HIV, cancer treatment).
- If you have any other chronic illness (e.g. diabetes, kidney disease).
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Amphotericin B or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Giving this information to the doctor will help him treat you in the safest way possible.
How do you use this medicine?
This is not a pill that you swallow. Amphotericin B Liposomal is an injection (infusion) that is given into your body through a vein . This is usually done in a hospital or clinic, under the supervision of medical staff. The medicine is given into your body through a cannula that is placed in a vein in your arm, like a bottle of saline.
Very rarely, some patients are advised to take this treatment at home. If this is the case, you will be carefully instructed on how to prepare and administer it. It is important to take the medicine exactly as directed, at the right time . Never take more or less than the prescribed dose.
Important: If you use injections at home, never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a specially designated 'sharps container' . If you don't have one, you can get one from your doctor.
Can this medicine be given to small children?
Yes, if necessary, this medicine can be given to children under the supervision of a pediatrician. However, it requires special care and accurate calculation of doses.
What if the dosage of the medicine increases?
If you think you have taken more than the recommended dose, go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
When taking this medicine, you should also be careful about the other medications you are taking. Some medications can interact with this one and increase side effects.
| Drug Interactions | |
|---|---|
| Medicines that should never be taken with this medicine: | |
| - Cidofovir (a medicine for viral infections) | |
| Other medications that may cause problems and should be reported to the doctor: | |
| |
This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and Ayurvedic medicines) . Also tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Possible side effects during treatment
Your condition will be monitored closely by the medical staff while you are taking this medicine. However, some side effects may occur. Some of them are serious, while others are mild.
| Side Effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor or nurse immediately | |
| Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips/mouth/tongue/throat | Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Difficulty breathing or chest tightness | |
| Effects on the kidneys (change in the amount or color of urine) | |
| Heart rhythm irregularities, abnormal changes in blood pressure | |
| High fever, chills, and shivering | |
| Unusual bruising, bleeding | |
| Severe fatigue, seizures, loss of consciousness | |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache, body ache | If these persist or bother you, let your doctor know. |
| Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea | |
| Skin redness (flushing), pain where the cannula was inserted | |
| Cough, difficulty sleeping | |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, please inform your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- Amphotericin B Liposomal (LAmB) is a powerful antifungal injection given intravenously, not as a pill. It is used to treat severe, systemic infections.
- Before starting treatment, it is imperative that you tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking (including Sinhala medicines).
- If you experience any serious side effects such as difficulty breathing, severe allergies, or changes in urination, notify the medical staff immediately.
- This medicine is given in a hospital under medical supervision. Do not change the prescribed dose or skip a dose for any reason.
- If you have any further questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor.
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