Antimicrobials
Colistin

Colistin

Medium
N/A
Non-formulary; $

Spectrum of Activity

General Information

Pneumonia or serious infections caused by MDR organisms with known susceptibility to colistin.

  • SCr
  • BUN
  • Signs of neurotoxicity
  • Nephrotoxicity ( greater than 10%)

  • Neurotoxicity

  • CNS effects (dizziness, seizures, slurred speech)

  • Skin rash

  • Bronchoconstriction with inhaled use

Caution when used with other nephrotoxic agents due to additive toxicities (e.g. aminoglycosides, vancomycin, contrast agents, etc.).

Non-depolarizing muscle relaxants may enhance the neuromuscular blockade.

Formulated as the prodrug colistimethate (CMS)

Product vials may be labeled as international units, mg of prodrug, or mg of colistin base activity (CBA)

1 mg CBA = 30,000 IU CMS = 2.4 mg CMS

Antimicrobial class: Polymyxin

Pregnancy category: C

Average serum half life: 6.3-12 hr

Biliary penetration: No Data

CSF penetration: Requires intrathecal or intraventricular administration

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Urine penetration: Therapeutic