Amphotericin B Lipid Complex (am-foe-TER-i-sin B LIP-id KOM-plex)

Treats infections caused by a fungus. Belongs to a class of drugs called antifungals.

Brand Name(s):

Abelcet

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
• An intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us) or IV injection is given through a tube put in one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist, hand, or sometimes in your chest.
• A nurse or other caregiver trained to give injections will give your treatment.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule.
• Use the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
• Store this medicine in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using any antibiotic or other antifungal medicine (such as Ancobon®, Nizoral®, or Monistat®), cancer medicines, a corticosteroid (such as prednisone or cortisone), corticotropin (ACTH), cyclosporin, digoxin (Lanoxin®), muscle relaxants, pentamidine, or zidovudine (Retrovir®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease.
• Your doctor may want to test your blood while you are receiving this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fainting
• Fever and chills
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Swelling, pain, or redness near where the IV needle is given
• Trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache
• Mild diarrhea
• Mild nausea or upset stomach