AmBisome

Generic name: amphotericin B liposomal [ AM-foe-TER-i-sin-B-LYE-poe-SOE-mal ]
Drug class: Polyenes

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Mar 22, 2024.

What is AmBisome?

AmBisome is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.

AmBisome is used to treat serious, life-threatening fungal infections including leishmaniasis, or a certain form of meningitis in people infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

AmBisome is not for treating a minor fungal infection such as a yeast infection of the mouth, esophagus, or vagina.

Warnings

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

Tell your caregivers 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 Ambisome.

Some people receiving a AmBisome injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). 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.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with AmBisome if you are allergic to amphotericin B.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• kidney disease;

• liver disease; or

• an electrolyte imbalance (such as high or low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether amphotericin B liposomal will harm an unborn baby.

You should not breast-feed while using AmBisome.

Related/similar drugs

ciprofloxacin, fluconazole, Augmentin, amoxicillin / clavulanate, vancomycin, Diflucan, gentamicin

How is AmBisome given?

AmBisome is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take about 2 hours to complete.

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

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, kidney function, and other vital signs will be watched closely.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If AmBisome is given while you are in the hospital, you are not likely to miss a dose.

If you are receiving this medicine in an outpatient clinic, call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Since Ambisome is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while receiving AmBisome?

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

AmBisome side effects

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

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.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• kidney problems - little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath;

• low calcium level - muscle spasms or contractions, numbness or tingly feeling (around your mouth, or in your fingers and toes);

• low magnesium - dizziness, irregular heartbeats, feeling jittery, muscle cramps, muscle spasms, cough or choking feeling; or

• low potassium level - leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling.

Common AmBisome side effects may include:

• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• trouble breathing;

• chills;

• weakness; or

• rash.

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 AmBisome?

Amphotericin B can harm your kidneys, especially if you also use certain medicines for infections, cancer, osteoporosis, organ transplant rejection, bowel disorders, high blood pressure, or pain or arthritis (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).

Other drugs may interact with amphotericin B liposomal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

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

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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