Antimicrobials
Amphotericin - Liposomal (AmBisome)

Amphotericin - Liposomal (AmBisome)

Low
N/A

Spectrum of Activity

Dosing

General Information

HEALTH CANADA APPROVED

  • Empirical therapy for presumed fungal infection in febrile, neutropenic patients
  • Treatment of aspergillosis, candida, and/or cryptococcus infections refractory to conventional amphotericin B or when renal impairment or unacceptable toxicity precludes use of conventional amphotericin B
  • Neuromuscular blocking agents, digoxin, antiarrhythmics: amphotericin induced hypokalemia may enhance effects and/or toxicity
  • Other nephrotoxic drugs: Concomitant use may enhance amphotericin B nephrotoxicity (eg vancomycin, aminoglycosides, pentamidine, cycloSPORINE, CISplatin)
  • Loop/thiazide diuretics, long term steroids, laxatives; increased risk for hypokalemia/hypomagnesemia; recommend amiloride. Monitor potassium closely. May still need additional potassium supplementation

RECOMMENDED

  • Baseline serum creatinine, serum electrolytes (including calcium and magnesium), complete blood count with differential, then weekly
  • Baseline AST, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin, then weekly
  • Monitor volume status and weight throughout therapy to prevent sodium depletion and dehydration
  • IM and subcutaneous administration: not applicable.
  • Abelcet is amphotericin B lipid complex. It is a different formulation with specific dosing and administration.

Antimicrobial class: Antifungal Antibiotic

Average serum half life: 150 hours

Urine penetration: Poor

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Biliary penetration: Therapeutic

pH: 5 to 6