Injectable amphotericin B: mix-ups between lipid and non-lipid formulations.
(1) Amphotericin B is a standard antifungal drug with a narrow therapeutic margin. It has potentially severe adverse effects, especially renal and cardiac toxicity; (2) Three injectable forms of amphotericin B are currently available in France and elsewhere. They mainly differ in their dose regimens; (3) Cases of fatal overdose have occurred following confusion between the various injectable formulations; (4) Measures intended to prevent such errors include: specific training of healthcare staff; informing users that the different injectable forms of amphotericin B are not interchangeable; simultaneously mentioning the excipient and the international nonproprietary name (INN) and the brand name; remembering the maximum dose of the conventional formulation; noting the dose per kilogram per day, as well as the total daily dose; and if possible, involving the patient.
D000666:Amphotericin B / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections / Q000009:adverse effects; D007318:Inservice Training; D008508:Medication Errors / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000517:prevention & control; D009181:Mycoses / Q000188:drug therapy; D012308:Risk Management
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D000666:Amphotericin B