AMBISOME

Drug Name: AMBISOME

AMBISOME DESCRIPTION:
AMPHOTERICIN/LIPID COMPLEX INJECTION (am-foh-TAIR-eh-sin/LIP-ids)

COMMON AMBISOME BRAND NAME(S):
Abelcet, Ambisome, Amphotec

AMBISOME 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.

HOW TO USE AMBISOME:
AMBISOME: AMBISOME 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 AMBISOME for several weeks to months in certain cases. Stopping therapy too soon may result in ineffective treatment.

AMBISOME USES:
AMBISOME is used in the treatment of certain fungal infections.

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

AMBISOME 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.

AMBISOME OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

AMBISOME NOTES:
AMBISOME 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.

MISSED AMBISOME 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.

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