Abelcet ratings & reviews

Abelcet is a brand name for a drug that contains amphotericin B complexed with two phospholipids and is formulated as a sterile, pyrogen-free suspension for intravenous infusion. The active ingredient, amphotericin B, is an antifungal antibiotic in the polyene class. Each 20 mL vial of this drug contains 100 mg of amphotericin B. Some key inactive ingredients include l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine, l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol, and sodium chloride. Abelcet is intended to change the permeability of the fungal cell membrane by binding to sterols, which makes it commonly used against fungal infections.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected into a vein. It is usually given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting. It may also be given at home.

If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give it. Use exactly as directed. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you get this medication at the hospital or clinic: It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

If you give yourself this medication at home: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Call your care team with questions.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• High potassium level—muscle weakness, fast or irregular heartbeat
• Infusion reactions—chest pain, shortness of breath or trouble breathing, feeling faint or lightheaded
• Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
• Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
• Low magnesium level—muscle pain or cramps, unusual weakness or fatigue, fast or irregular heartbeat, tremors
• Low potassium level—muscle pain or cramps, unusual weakness or fatigue, fast or irregular heartbeat, constipation

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Chills
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Immune system problems
• An unusual or allergic reaction to amphotericin B, other medications, foods, dyes or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

• Cidofovir

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Certain antibiotics given by injection
• Corticotropin
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin
• Entecavir
• Flucytosine
• Medications to treat cancer
• Muscle relaxers
• Other medications for fungal infections
• Pentamidine
• Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone
• Zidovudine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.