AmBisome (amphotericin B liposomal) is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.
AmBisome is used to treat serious, life-threatening fungal infections including leishmaniasis, and 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.
Important information
AmBisome may need to be given for up to several weeks or months, depending on the infection being treated.
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 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 use AmBisome if you are allergic to amphotericin B.
To make sure AmBisome is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category B. AmBisome is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
It is not known whether amphotericin B liposomal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are receiving AmBisome.
How is AmBisome given?
AmBisome is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The injection must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take 1 or more 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, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving Ambisome.
While using AmBisome, you may need frequent blood tests. Your liver and kidney function may also need to be tested.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since AmBisome is usually given while you are in the hospital, you are not likely to miss a dose.
If you are receiving AmBisome in an outpatient clinic, call your doctor if you will miss an appointment for your injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while receiving AmBisome?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
AmBisome side effects
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.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to AmBisome: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
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chest pain, fast heart rate;
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shortness of breath, a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out);
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signs of a kidney problem - little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath;
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low calcium - numbness or tingly feeling around your mouth, fast or slow heart rate, muscle tightness or contraction, overactive reflexes; or
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low potassium - confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling.
Common AmBisome side effects may include:
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stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
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chills;
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rash;
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headache; or
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abnormal liver function tests.
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.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect AmBisome?
Other drugs may interact with amphotericin B liposomal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
