Why is this medication prescribed?

Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection is prescribed primarily for the treatment of serious, life-threatening fungal infections, especially in patients who cannot tolerate or do not respond to other antifungal treatments. It is most commonly used to treat:

• Fungal infections like aspergillosis, cryptococcosis, and candidiasis.
• Visceral leishmaniasis, a severe parasitic infection caused by Leishmania parasites.

How should this medicine be used?

How to Use Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection:

• Administration: Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection is administered intravenously (IV), meaning it is injected directly into a vein. It is usually given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
• Dosage: The dosage and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient’s age, weight, kidney function, and overall health. The typical dosing regimen can range from several days to several weeks.
• Preparation: The medication is prepared as a liposomal formulation, which is a special form that encapsulates the drug in lipid (fat) layers. This reduces its toxicity and improves its delivery to the infected tissues.
• Infusion Time: The medication is generally infused slowly over 1-2 hours to minimize the risk of side effects such as fever, chills, nausea, or infusion reactions.
• Pre-medication: To help prevent infusion-related side effects, patients may be pre-treated with medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), or corticosteroids.
• Monitoring: During and after the infusion, healthcare providers will closely monitor the patient’s vital signs, kidney function, liver function, and electrolytes to detect any potential side effects or complications.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medication.

Other uses for this medicine

• Fungal Prophylaxis: In some cases, it may be used to prevent fungal infections in high-risk patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive treatments.
• Fungal Infections Resistant to Other Treatments: It may be used when other antifungal medications are not effective or are not tolerated.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection:

• Kidney Function Monitoring: Regularly monitor kidney function through blood tests. Report any signs of kidney issues, such as decreased urine output or swelling.
• Infusion Reactions: Be aware of potential infusion-related reactions, including fever, chills, and nausea. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience these symptoms.
• Electrolyte Monitoring: Monitor potassium and magnesium levels regularly, as imbalances can occur.
• Liver Function: Regularly check liver function tests, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions or are taking other medications that affect the liver.
• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergies to Amphotericin B or similar medications.
• Drug Interactions: Provide a complete list of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration before and during the infusion to minimize the risk of kidney issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the use of Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Pre-Medication: You may receive pre-medications to prevent or reduce infusion-related side effects. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications.

Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider regarding these precautions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying well-hydrated is generally recommended to support overall health and kidney function.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Contact Healthcare Provider: If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for instructions. They will advise you on whether to take the missed dose as soon as possible or to skip it, depending on your treatment schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Avoid doubling up on doses to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection can cause several side effects, some of which may be severe. Here are the common and serious side effects associated with this medication:

Common Side Effects:

• Fever and Chills: These can occur during or shortly after the infusion.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive upset is common.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.

Serious Side Effects:

• Kidney Problems: Symptoms of kidney issues may include decreased urine output, swelling in your hands or feet, and fatigue.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Amphotericin B can cause imbalances in potassium and magnesium levels, which may lead to muscle cramps, weakness, or irregular heartbeats.
• Liver Problems: Symptoms might include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
• Infusion Reactions: Severe reactions can include high fever, chills, rash, or difficulty breathing.
• Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells, which might lead to fatigue or shortness of breath.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, severe allergic reactions can occur, characterized by rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Severe Respiratory Issues: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Seizures: Rare but serious neurological symptoms.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately. Regular monitoring and blood tests during treatment can help manage these side effects effectively.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage:
  • Store Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the medication’s label. It is generally stored in a controlled temperature environment, often at room temperature or in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C or 36°F to 46°F).
  • Do not freeze the medication. Protect it from light and moisture.
  • Only handle the medication if you are trained to do so.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired medication according to local regulations or guidelines. This might involve returning it to a pharmacy or using a designated medication disposal program.
  • Do not flush the medication down the toilet or sink unless specifically instructed to do so, as this can harm the environment.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Healthcare Provider: In case of a medical emergency, such as severe allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, or other serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
• Call Emergency Services: If you experience symptoms of a severe reaction or overdose, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe kidney issues, electrolyte imbalances, or signs of severe allergic reactions.
• Immediate Action: Contact your healthcare provider or poison control center immediately if an overdose is suspected. Treatment may involve supportive care and monitoring in a hospital setting.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is crucial to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and manage any side effects.
• Interactions: Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Discuss the use of Amphotericin B Liposomal Injection if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

If you have any additional questions or concerns about this medication, always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and instructions for the safe use, storage, and disposal of the medication.