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Drug interactions

Amphotericin b + Cyclosporine

Severity: Major

Amphotericin b and Cyclosporine: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: US FDA label

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Both drugs are nephrotoxic, and together they commonly cause additive renal impairment, hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia. In transplant patients this can be difficult to distinguish from rejection.

What this interaction means in plain words

Amphotericin b and Cyclosporine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Additive nephrotoxicity, with afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction from both agents and direct tubular toxicity from amphotericin B.

What to do

Monitor serum creatinine, potassium and magnesium closely, check cyclosporine trough levels, and ensure hydration. Prefer a liposomal amphotericin formulation and the shortest effective course.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Amphotericin b with Cyclosporine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amphotericin b and Cyclosporine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Both drugs are nephrotoxic, and together they commonly cause additive renal impairment, hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia. In transplant patients this can be difficult to distinguish from rejection.

How serious is the interaction between Amphotericin b and Cyclosporine?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor serum creatinine, potassium and magnesium closely, check cyclosporine trough levels, and ensure hydration. Prefer a liposomal amphotericin formulation and the shortest effective course.

What other medicines interact with Amphotericin b?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Amphotericin b with, for example, Cidofovir, Adefovir, Amikacin. The full list is on the Amphotericin b page.

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