Drug interactions
Amphotericin b + Polymyxin b
Severity: Major
Amphotericin b and Polymyxin b: major interaction.
Last updated
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 can injure the kidneys, and polymyxin B also has neurotoxic effects. Combined use increases the risk of acute kidney injury and may raise polymyxin exposure.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amphotericin b and Polymyxin b 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.
Amphotericin b belongs to Anti Fungals; Polymyxin b belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Additive nephrotoxicity through direct tubular cell injury.
What to do
Avoid concomitant use if possible. If both are essential, monitor renal function and electrolytes frequently and keep the patient well hydrated.
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?
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Other interactions of Amphotericin b
- Amphotericin b + Cidofovir Contraindicated
- Adefovir + Amphotericin b Major
- Amikacin + Amphotericin b Major
- Amphotericin b + Arsenic trioxide Major
- Amphotericin b + Capreomycin Major
- Amphotericin b + Cephaloridine Major
Other interactions of Polymyxin b
- Cidofovir + Polymyxin b Contraindicated
- Colistin + Polymyxin b Contraindicated
- Acyclovir + Polymyxin b Major
- Adefovir + Polymyxin b Major
- Amikacin + Polymyxin b Major
- Atracurium + Polymyxin b Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amphotericin b with Polymyxin b?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amphotericin b and Polymyxin b 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 can injure the kidneys, and polymyxin B also has neurotoxic effects. Combined use increases the risk of acute kidney injury and may raise polymyxin exposure.
How serious is the interaction between Amphotericin b and Polymyxin b?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concomitant use if possible. If both are essential, monitor renal function and electrolytes frequently and keep the patient well hydrated.
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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