Description

Amphotericin B 5mg Injection – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Storage

Overview
Amphotericin B 5mg Injection is a potent antifungal medicine used for the treatment of severe and potentially life-threatening fungal infections. It is usually prescribed when other antifungal options are not effective or suitable.

This injection works by disrupting fungal cell membranes, preventing their growth and survival. Amphotericin B is often given as a liposomal formulation, which helps reduce side effects compared to conventional formulations.

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Amphotericin B Injection Uses

• Treatment of severe fungal infections caused by:

  • Aspergillus

  • Candida

  • Cryptococcus

  • Other invasive fungi

• Indicated for life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients

• Not recommended for mild or superficial fungal infections in patients with normal immune function

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Key Features & Benefits

• Powerful antifungal activity for invasive fungal infections

• Liposomal drug delivery system reduces side effects compared to traditional amphotericin B

• Administered by slow intravenous infusion, usually once daily or every other day

• Carefully adjusted dosage based on patient’s weight, condition, and treatment response

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Active Ingredients

• Amphotericin B – primary antifungal agent

• Deoxycholic acid – improves solubility of the drug

• Sodium phosphate (dibasic & monobasic) – buffering agents

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Dosage & Administration

• Usual Adult Dose: 0.7 – 1 mg/kg by slow IV infusion (over 4–6 hours), once daily

• Initial Dose: 5–10 mg in sensitive patients, then gradually increased by 5–10 mg/day

• Maximum Dose: Should not exceed 1.5 mg/kg/day (due to risk of toxicity)

• Preparation:

  • Reconstitute vial to 5 mg/mL

  • Further dilute in 500 mL of 5% glucose

  • Infuse over 2–6 hours (may shorten to 1 hour if tolerated)

• Monitoring: Kidney and liver function must be checked regularly; premedication may be given to prevent infusion reactions

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Possible Side Effects

Like all antifungal treatments, Amphotericin B can cause side effects, including:

• Common: Fever, chills, nausea, headache, muscle/joint pain, infusion site reactions

• Serious (require monitoring): Kidney damage, liver issues, electrolyte imbalance, nerve/muscle toxicity, severe infusion reactions

⚠️ Careful hospital-based monitoring is required throughout treatment.

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Storage Guidelines

• Store powder vials refrigerated at 2–8°C

• Reconstituted solution stable for 24 hours if refrigerated

• Diluted infusion solution should be used immediately

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Patient Reviews & Effectiveness

• Average Rating: 3.5/5 (based on WebMD reviews)

• Pros: Effective for invasive fungal infections resistant to other treatments

• Cons: Risk of side effects, dosing complexity, and long treatment duration

• Requires close medical supervision for safety and effectiveness