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Antifungal (polyene)

Amphotericin B: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Fungizone, AmBisome, Abelcet, Amphotericin B.

Ces informations sont fournies à titre indicatif uniquement et ne constituent pas un avis médical. Consultez toujours un professionnel de santé qualifié pour toute préoccupation médicale personnelle. En cas d'urgence, appelez votre numéro d'urgence local.

What it is used for

  • Serious or life-threatening systemic fungal infections
  • Invasive aspergillosis and candidiasis
  • Cryptococcal meningitis
  • Certain other deep fungal infections in hospital settings

How it works

Amphotericin B binds to the membrane of fungal cells, creating holes that make the cell leak its contents and die. It is a powerful antifungal reserved for severe infections, with newer formulations packaged in fat particles (liposomal forms) to reduce side effects.

How it is taken

Given as an injection or drip (infusion) into a vein in hospital, with several formulations including conventional and liposomal versions that are not interchangeable. It is administered and closely monitored by specialist healthcare staff; there is no patient self-administration. Your care team adjusts treatment based on blood tests and how you respond.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Fever and chills during or after the infusion
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headache
  • Low potassium or other salt imbalances
  • Pain or irritation at the infusion site

Serious effects — get help

  • Kidney damage shown by blood tests or reduced urine
  • Severe infusion reactions (breathing difficulty, sharp drop in blood pressure)
  • Dangerous changes in blood salts or heart rhythm
  • Serious allergic reaction
  • Significant anaemia or low blood counts

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other medicines that can harm the kidneys
  • Medicines that lower potassium, including some diuretics
  • Certain heart and muscle-relaxant medicines affected by low potassium
  • The care team reviews all medicines before and during treatment

Who should take care

  • Kidney function, blood counts, and blood salts are monitored closely throughout treatment
  • Patients are watched carefully during infusions for reactions
  • Used in pregnancy only when essential for a serious infection
  • Different formulations have different dosing and must not be swapped without specialist instruction

Frequently asked questions

Why is amphotericin B given in hospital?
It is used for severe fungal infections and needs to be given by infusion with close monitoring of kidneys, blood counts, and reactions, which is why it is managed by specialists.
What is the liposomal form?
Liposomal amphotericin packages the drug in tiny fat particles, which can reduce kidney and infusion side effects. Your care team chooses the formulation best suited to your situation.
Why do I get fever and chills with it?
Infusion-related fever and chills are common. The team may give other medicines beforehand and slow the infusion to ease these reactions.
Will it affect my kidneys?
It can stress the kidneys, so blood tests and fluids are used to protect them and detect any problems early. Tell staff about reduced urine or swelling.
Is Amphotericin B safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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