Amphotericin

Amphotericin is indicated in:

• intestinal candidiasis by oral route - tablets
• systemic fungal infections by slow intravenous infusion

Caution must be exercised:

• with corticosteroids
• when given parenterally - toxicity is the rule rather than the exception; close supervision is necessary with:
  • hepatic and renal function tests
  • FBC and plasma electrolytes
• with other nephrotoxic drugs
• if frequent changes of injection site - irritation
• with co-administration of anti-neoplastics

Possible adverse effects include:

• fever
• rash
• nausea, vomiting
• diarrhoea
• anorexia
• myalgia and arthralgia
• headache
• biochemical disturbances e.g. hypokalaemia, hypomagnesiumaemia
• anaemia
• arrhythmias
• neurosensory disturbances e.g. hearing loss, peripheral neuropathy, diplopia
• seizures
• nephrotoxicity
• hepatotoxicity
• phlebitis
• anaphylaxis

The summary of product characteristics must be consulted before prescribing this drug.

Reference:

1. British National Formulary (BNF); Amphotericin. NICE Evidence Services (UK access only).