Amphotericin B Injection (AMPHOTERICIN/LIPID COMPLEX - INJECTION)

Amphotericin B Injection (AMPHOTERICIN/LIPID COMPLEX - INJECTION)

For treating fungal infections.

Brand Name(s): Abelcet, AmBisome

Generic Name: Amphotericin B Liposomal

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given over 1 to 2 hours.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Keep at room temperature until mixing. Refrigerate any extra mixed medicine until ready to use it.

Do not freeze the medicine.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Space doses evenly to keep a steady amount of medicine in the body.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.

Tell your doctor or nurse right away if you have dizziness, chest tightness, chills, shaking, fast heartbeat, or a feeling of heat or flushing while the medicine is being given. The medicine may need to be stopped or given at a slower rate.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist how to safely discard unused medicines, needles and syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • dizziness
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • fever or chills
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • confusion
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mood changes
  • muscle cramps
  • joint or muscle pain
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • shortness of breath
  • blood in stool
  • increased urinary frequency
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.