amphotericin B liposomal

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Pronunciation: AM foe TER i sin B LYE poe SOE mal

Brand: AmBisome

What is the most important information I should know about amphotericin B liposomal?

Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, sweaty, hot or cold, or if you have a fast heartbeat, chest tightness, or trouble breathing while you are receiving this medicine.

What is amphotericin B liposomal?

Amphotericin B liposomal is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.

Amphotericin B liposomal is used to treat serious, life-threatening fungal infections including leishmaniasis, and a certain form of meningitis in people infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Amphotericin B liposomal is not for treating a minor fungal infection such as a yeast infection of the mouth, esophagus, or vagina.

Amphotericin B liposomal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving amphotericin B liposomal?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to amphotericin B.

To make sure amphotericin B liposomal is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • kidney disease;
  • liver disease; or
  • low levels of calcium or potassium in your blood.

FDA pregnancy category B. Amphotericin B liposomal is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether amphotericin B liposomal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are receiving amphotericin B liposomal.

How is amphotericin B liposomal given?

Amphotericin B liposomal is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Amphotericin B liposomal must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take 1 or more hours to complete.

Amphotericin B liposomal may need to be given for up several weeks or months, depending on the infection being treated.

Your breathing, blood pressure, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving amphotericin B liposomal.

While using amphotericin B liposomal, you may need frequent blood tests. Your liver and kidney function may also need to be tested.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since amphotericin B liposomal is usually given while you are in the hospital, you are not likely to miss a dose.

If you are receiving amphotericin B liposomal in an outpatient clinic, call your doctor if you will miss an appointment for your amphotericin B liposomal injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while receiving amphotericin B liposomal?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of amphotericin B liposomal?

Some side effects may occur during the injection. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, sweaty, hot or cold, or if you have a fast heartbeat, chest tightness, or trouble breathing.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • chest pain, fast heart rate;
  • shortness of breath, a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out);
  • signs of a kidney problem --little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath;
  • low calcium --numbness or tingly feeling around your mouth, fast or slow heart rate, muscle tightness or contraction, overactive reflexes; or
  • low potassium --confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling.

Common side effects may include:

  • stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
  • chills;
  • rash;
  • headache; or
  • abnormal liver function tests.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect amphotericin B liposomal?

Other drugs may interact with amphotericin B liposomal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about amphotericin B liposomal.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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