Ambisome

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Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Ambisome

Uses
This medication is used in the treatment of certain fungal infections.

Notes

This medication is usually given in the hospital setting where your condition and response can be closely monitored.
Laboratory tests and blood counts will be done routinely while using this to monitor its effects and prevent side effects.

Storage

Consult your pharmacist for the manufacturer-specific recommendations on storage for this product.

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How To Use

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is administered by infusion into a vein by a health care professional.
It is usually given once a day over 1 to 3 hours.
It may be necessary to continue therapy with this medication for several weeks to months in certain cases.
Stopping therapy too soon may result in ineffective treatment.

Side Effects

Fever and chills may occur 1 to 2 hours after the infusion is started.
This is more common with the first few doses and should subside as therapy continues.
Nausea, headache and irritation at the injection site may also occur.
To help minimize these effects, you may be given a pain reliever or other medication before each dose.
If the side effects continue or become severe, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor promptly if you develop an irregular or unusually rapid pulse, severe weakness, vision changes, tingling of the hands or feet, ringing in the ears, change in the amount of urine, muscle cramping or yellowing eyes and skin.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this, tell your doctor if you have any heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease or any allergies.
This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy.
Use of this medication is not recommended while breast-feeding.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Missed Dose

It is important to use each dose as scheduled.
If you miss a dose, contact your health care provider who will help establish a new dose schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription or prescription medication you may take particularly steroids, digoxin, cyclosporine, zidovudine, pentamidine, aminoglycoside antibiotics, cancer medications, tacrolimus or other antifungals.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.