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Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Amphotericin b may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Amphotericin b

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is an antifungal antibiotic. The active ingredient in Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is amphotericin B. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is given as an infusion into a vein (a drip) in hospital by a doctor or nurse. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is used to treat serious infections caused by fungi. • •

Fungal infections of one or more deep organs of the body. Suspected fungal infections in patients with a raised temperature and neutropenia. Neutropenia is a reduced number of white blood cells called neutrophils. These are important in fighting infections. Neutropenia can be a side effect of cancer treatments.

Before you are given Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal your doctor will check that your fever is not due to bacteria or viruses. You will probably have had one or more antibiotics already. A fever which continues despite treatment may be due to a fungal infection. It's difficult to confirm this with current tests, however. •

Visceral leishmaniasis, a disease caused by a parasite.

What you need to know before you take it

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal Severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic or anaphylactoid) can occur at any point of treatment of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. Therefore, each dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal should be given slowly by infusion into the vein over a 30 – 60 minute period and you will be closely observed every time. Your doctor will not give you Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal:

–

if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to Amphotericin B or any of the other ingredients of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. However, if your condition is life-threatening you may be given Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal if your doctor believes that only Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal can help you;

–

If you have previously experienced a severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic or anaphylactoid) to liposomal amphotericin B. Symptoms of such immediate and life-threatening allergic reactions include: flushing, itching, sickness, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue and airways, often enough to cause difficulty breathing

Warnings and precautions Your doctor will take special care with liposomal amphotericin B –

if you have a severe allergic (anaphylactic) reaction. If this happens your doctor will stop the infusion;

–

if you get other reactions related to the infusion. If this happens, your doctor may slow down the infusion, so you receive Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal over a longer period of time (approximately 2 hours). Your doctor may also give you medicines to prevent or treat infusionrelated reactions, such as diphenhydramine (an antihistamine), paracetamol, pethidine (for pain relief) and/or hydrocortisone (an anti-inflammatory medicine that works by reducing the response of your immune system);

–

if you are taking other medicines that may cause kidney damage, see the section other medicines and Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. Liposomal amphotericin B may cause damage to the kidney. Your doctor or nurse will take blood samples to measure your creatinine (a chemical in the blood that reflects kidney function), and electrolyte levels (particularly potassium and magnesium) before and during the treatment with liposomal amphotericin B because both of these can be abnormal if you have kidney problems. This is particularly important if you have previous renal damage or if you are taking other medicines that may cause damage to the kidney. The blood samples will also be tested for changes in your liver, and your body's ability to produce new blood cells and platelets. If blood tests show a change in kidney function, or other important changes, your doctor may give you a lower dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal or stop treatment;

–

if blood tests show that your potassium levels are low. If this happens, your doctor may prescribe a potassium supplement for you to take while you are treated with Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal;

–

if blood test shows that your potassium levels are high you may suffer irregular heartbeat, sometimes severe;

–

if you have a white blood cell transfusion. Sudden and severe problems in the lungs can happen if you are given Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal infusion during or shortly after a white blood cell transfusion. Your doctor will recommend that the infusions are separated by as long a period as possible. This will reduce the risk of lung problems, and your lungs will be monitored;

–

if you have had kidney failure and are having dialysis. Your doctor may start Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal treatment after the procedure has ended;

–

if you have diabetes. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal contains approximately 900 mg of sucrose (sugar) in each vial. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes.

Other medicines and Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines or have recently taken any. This includes medicines and herbal products you bought without a prescription. Medicines that may cause kidney damage: medicines that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants), such as ciclosporin and tacrolimus;

  • certain antibiotics called aminoglycosides (including gentamicin, neomycin and streptomycin) and polymixins;
  • pentamidine a medicine used to treat pneumonia in people with AIDS and leishmaniasis.  Tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines. –

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal may make any kidney damage caused by the medicine worse. If you are taking any of these medicines, your doctor or nurse will take regular blood samples to check your kidneys. •

Medicines that may lower your potassium levels:

  • corticosteroids, anti-inflammation medicines that work by reducing the response of your immune system;
  • corticotropin (ACTH), used to control the amount of corticosteroid produced by your body. The body produces corticosteroid in response to stress;
  • diuretics, medicines that increase the amount of urine your body produces. This includes furosemide;
  • digitalis glycosides, medicines produced from the foxglove plant and used to treat heart failure (e.g digoxin). Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal may worsen the side effects of digitalis, such as heart rhythm changes;
  • muscle relaxants usually used during surgery, such as tubocurarine. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal may increase the muscle relaxant effect. Other medicines:
  • antifungal medicines, such as flucytosine. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal may worsen the side effects of flucytosine. This includes changes in the body's ability to produce new blood cells. This may be seen in blood tests;
  • certain cancer medicines, such as methotrexate, doxorubicin, carmustine and cyclophosphamide. Taking this type of medicine with Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal may cause kidney damage, wheezing or trouble breathing and low blood pressure;
  • white blood cell (leukocyte) transfusions. Sudden and severe problems in the lungs can happen if you are given Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal infusion during or shortly after a white blood cell transfusion. Your doctor will recommend that the infusions are separated by as long a period as possible. This will reduce the risk of lung problems and your lungs will be monitored.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine. Your doctor will only prescribe Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal if they think the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks to you and your unborn child or your baby. Driving and using machines Do not drive or operate machinery Some of the possible side effects of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal could affect your ability to drive or use machines safely, See Section 4, Possible side effects. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal contains sugar

Tell your doctor if you have diabetes. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal contains approximately 900 mg of sugar (sucrose) in each vial.

How to take it

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is always given to you by a doctor or nurse. It is given into a vein (a drip). Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must not be given by any other method. To prepare the infusion Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must be dissolved in sterile water for injection and then diluted with a solution containing dextrose. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must not be mixed with saline (salt) solutions or with other medicinal products or electrolytes. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is NOT interchangeable with other amphotericin products. Each dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal should be given slowly by infusion into the vein over a 30 – 60 minute period and you will be closely observed every time. If a severe allergic reaction occurs, the infusion will be immediately discontinued, and you will not receive further infusion of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. Use in adults Your dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal will depend on your body weight. Fungal infections of one or more deep organs of the body: Treatment is normally started at 3 mg per kg of body weight, every day for a minimum of 14 days. The duration of therapy will be determined on an individual basis by your Doctor. Your doctor may decide to increase the amount you receive to as high as 5 mg per kg body weight. For mucormycosis the starting dose is normally 5 to 10 mg per kg of body weight per day. The duration of therapy will be determined on an individual basis by your doctor. For HIV associated Cryptococcal meningitis a single dose of 10 mg/kg Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal, in combination with daily flucytosine 100 mg/kg and daily fluconazole 1200 mg, both administered for 14 days. Suspected fungal infections in patients with a raised temperature and neutropenia: The recommended daily dose is 3 mg per kg of body weight, per day. Your doctor may decide to increase the amount you receive to as high as 5 mg per kg body weight. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal will be given to you until your temperature is normal for 3 days in a row. However, Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must not be given for more than 42 days in a row. Visceral leishmaniasis You may be given a total dose of between 21 and 30 mg per kg of body weight, over a period of 10 to 21 days. Your doctor will decide on the amount of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal you will receive and over how many days it will be given. Use in children and adolescents Liposomal amphotericin B has been used to treat children. The dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal for a child is calculated per kg of body weight in the same way as for adults. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is not recommended in babies under 1 month old. Use in elderly patients No change in dose or frequency of infusion is needed for elderly patients.

Use in patients with kidney problems Liposomal amphotericin B has been given to patients with kidney problems at doses ranging from 1 to 5 mg per kg of body weight per day. No change in dose or frequency of infusion is required. Your doctor or nurse will take regular blood samples to test for changes in kidney function during Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal treatment. How long will the infusion take? Normally the infusion will take 30 to 60 minutes. For doses greater than 5 mg per kg of body weight per day, the infusion could take up to 2 hours. If you receive a higher dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal than you should You should tell your doctor immediately if you think you received too much Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. If you have any further questions on taking this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist or nurse. 4.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Possible side effects

during the infusion You may get side effects during the infusion: –

Very common (These can affect more than 1 in every 10 people): fever, chills, and shivering. Less frequent infusion-related side effects include: chest tightness, chest pain, breathlessness, difficulty breathing (possibly with wheezing), flushing, a faster heart rate than normal, low blood pressure and musculoskeletal pain (described as joint pain, back pain, or bone pain).

These side effects clear up quickly when the infusion is stopped. These reactions may not happen with future infusions of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal or with a slower infusion (over 2 hours). Your doctor may give you other medicines to prevent infusion-related reactions, or to treat the symptoms if you do get them. If you have a severe infusion-related reaction, your doctor will stop the Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal infusion and you should not receive this treatment in the future. Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in every 10 people):

  • low blood potassium levels, leading to feeling tired, confused, having muscle weakness or cramps;
  • feeling sick or being sick;
  • fever, chills or shivering Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): low magnesium, calcium or sodium blood levels, leading to feeling tired, confused, muscle weakness or cramps; –

high blood sugar levels;

–

headache;

–

a faster heart rate than normal;

–

widening of the blood vessels, causing low blood pressure and flushing;

–

breathlessness;

–

diarrhoea;

–

stomach (abdominal) pain;

–

rash;

–

chest pain;

–

back pain;

–

abnormal results for liver or kidney function showing up in blood tests or urine tests;

–

high blood potassium levels.

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in every 100 people): bleeding into the skin, unusual bruising and bleeding for a long time after injury; –

severe allergic (anaphylactoid) reaction;

–

fits or seizures (convulsions);

–

difficulty breathing, possibly with wheezing.

Other side effects Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data):

  • anaemia (low red blood cell levels), with symptoms of excessive tiredness, being out of breath after light activity, and a pale complexion;
  • severe allergic (anaphylactic) or sensitivity reactions;
  • heart attacks and heart rhythm changes;
  • kidney failure and kidney problems. Signs include tiredness and passing less urine;
  • severe swelling of the skin around the lips, eyes or tongue;
  • breakdown of muscle;
  • bone pain and joint pain Interference with Phosphorus blood test results. False readings showing an increase in the levels of phosphate in your blood may occur when samples from patients receiving liposomal amphotericin B are analysed using a specific system called a PHOSm assay. If your test results show high levels of phosphate, then further analysis using a different system may be necessary to confirm the results. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine. 5.

How to store it

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is stored in the hospital pharmacy. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the vial label and the carton after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Do not store above 25°C. Do not throw away any medicine via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicine you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment. 6.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal contains • •

The active ingredient is Amphotericin B. Each vial contains 50 mg of amphotericin B enclosed inside liposomes (small fat particles). The other ingredients are hydrogenated soy phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, distearoylphosphatidylglycerol, alpha tocopherol, sucrose (sugar), disodium succinate hexahydrate, sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid.

What Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal looks like and contents of the pack Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is a sterile, Light Yellow to Yellow coloured powder for dispersion for infusion. It is presented in 20-ml glass vial. Each vial contains 50 mg of the active ingredient amphotericin B. The closure consists of a rubber stopper and an aluminum ring seal fitted with a removable plastic cap. Vials are available in cartons with 5-micron filters. Pack sizes: 1 vial with 1 filter and 10 vials with 10 filters Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer Marketing Authorisation Holder Tillomed Laboratories Limited 220 Butterfield Great Marlings, Luton LU2 8DL, United Kingdom Manufacturer Tillomed Laboratories Limited 220 Butterfield Great Marlings, Luton LU2 8DL, United Kingdom Tillomed Malta Limited Malta Life Sciences Park, LS2.01.06 Industrial Estate, San Gwann, SGN 3000, Malta

This leaflet was last revised in September 2024. The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only: READ THIS ENTIRE SECTION AND SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS CAREFULLY BEFORE BEGINNING RECONSTITUTION Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is not equivalent to other amphotericin products. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must be reconstituted using Sterile Water for Injection (without a bacteriostatic agent) and diluted in Dextrose solution (5%, 10% or 20%) for infusion only. The use of any solution other than those recommended, or the presence of a bacteriostatic agent (e.g. benzyl alcohol) in the solution, may cause precipitation of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is NOT compatible with saline and must not be reconstituted or diluted with saline or administered through an intravenous line that has previously been used for saline unless first flushed with dextrose solution (5%, 10% or 20%) for infusion. If this is not feasible, Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal should be administered through a separate line. Do NOT mix Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal with other medicinal products or electrolytes. Aseptic technique must be strictly observed in all handling, since no preservative or bacteriostatic agent is present in Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal, or in the materials specified for reconstitution and dilution. Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must be reconstituted by suitably trained staff. Vials of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal containing 50 mg of amphotericin B are prepared as follows: 1. Add 12 ml of Sterile Water for Injection to each Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal vial, to yield a preparation containing 4 mg/ml amphotericin B. Step 1

2. IMMEDIATELY after the addition of water, SHAKE THE VIAL VIGOROUSLY for 30 seconds to completely disperse the Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. After reconstitution the concentrate is a translucent, yellow dispersion. Visually inspect the vial for particulate matter and

continue shaking until complete dispersion is obtained. Do not use if there is any evidence of precipitation of foreign matter. Step 2

3. Calculate the amount of reconstituted Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal (4 mg/ml) to be further diluted (see table below). 4. The infusion dispersion is obtained by dilution of the reconstituted Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal with between one (1) and nineteen (19) parts dextrose solution (5%, 10% or 20%) for infusion by volume, to give a final concentration in the recommended range of 2.00 mg/ml to 0.20 mg/ml amphotericin B as Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal (see table below). 5. Withdraw the calculated volume of reconstituted Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal into a sterile syringe. Using the 5-micron filter provided, instill the Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal preparation into a sterile container with the correct amount of dextrose solution (5%, 10% or 20%) for infusion. Step 5

An in-line membrane filter may be used for intravenous infusion of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal. However, the mean pore diameter of the filter should not be less than 1.0 micron.

Example of the preparation of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal dispersion for infusion at a dose of 3mg/kg/day in dextrose 5% solution for infusion. Weigh t (kg)

Numbe r of vials

Amount Amphoterici nB Tillomed liposomal (mg) to be withdrawn for further dilution

Volume of reconstitute d Amphoterici nB Tillomed liposomal (ml)*

To make up a 0.2mg/ml concentration

To make up a 2.0mg/ml concentration

(1 in 20 dilution)

(1 in 2 dilution)

Volum e of 5% dextros e needed (ml)

Total volume (ml; Amphoterici nB Tillomed liposomal plus 5% dextrose)

Volum e of 5% dextros e needed (ml)

Total volume (ml; Amphoterici nB Tillomed liposomal plus 5% dextrose)

10

1

30

7.5

142.5

150

7.5

15

25

2

75

18.75

356.25

375

18.75

37.5

40

3

120

30

570

600

30

60

55

4

165

41.25

783.75

825

41.25

82.5

70

5

210

52.5

997.5

1050

52.5

105

85

6

255

63.75

1211.2 5

1275

63.75

127.5

  • Each vial of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal (50mg) is reconstituted with 12ml Water for Injection to provide a concentration of 4mg/ml amphotericin B. Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

Frequently asked questions about Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion

How do I take Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion?

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion comes as infusion containing 50mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion?

The active substance in Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion is amphotericin b.

Are there equivalent medicines to Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Amphotericin B Gilead liposomal 50 mg Powder for dispersion for infusion (previously known as AmBisome). They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal 50 mg powder for dispersion for infusion without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Amphotericin b (3 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is indicated in adults and children aged 1 month to 18 years old for:

• the treatment of severe systemic and/or deep mycoses;

• the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis in immunocompetent patients including both adults and children;

• the empirical treatment of presumed fungal infections in febrile neutropenic patients, where the fever has failed to respond to broad spectrum antibiotics and appropriate investigations have failed to define a bacterial or viral cause.

Infections successfully treated with liposomal amphotericin B include: disseminated candidiasis, aspergillosis, mucormycosis, chronic mycetoma, cryptococcal meningitis and visceral leishmaniasis.

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal should not be used to treat the common clinically inapparent forms of fungal disease which show only positive skin or serologic tests.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Non-equivalence of amphotericin products

Different amphotericin products (sodium deoxycholate, liposomal, lipid complex) are not equivalent in terms of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and dosing and so the products should not be used interchangeably without accounting for these differences. Both the trade name, common name and dose should be verified pre-administration.

There is a risk of under-dose if Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal is administered at a dose recommended for amphotericin B deoxycholate.

Posology

Anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions can occur at any point of treatment of liposomal amphotericin B therefore the patient should be monitored closely during every treatment of liposomal amphotericin B (see section 4.4).

Treatment of mycoses

Therapy is usually instituted at a daily dose of 3 to 5 mg/kg of body weight for a minimum of 14 days. Dosage of amphotericin B as Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal must be adjusted to the specific requirements of each patient.

Mucormycosis

For suspected or confirmed infection, the recommended starting dose is 5 to 10 mg/kg/day. In patients with brain involvement or solid-organ transplant, dose at 10 mg/kg/day. Avoid slow escalation of doses. The duration of therapy should be determined on an individual basis. Courses of up to 6 – 8 weeks are commonly used in clinical practice; longer durations of therapy may be required for deep seated infections or in cases of prolonged courses of chemotherapy or neutropenia.

Although doses greater than 5 mg/kg and up to a maximum of 10 mg/kg have been used in clinical trials and clinical practice, data on the safety and efficacy of liposomal amphotericin B for the treatment of mucormycosis at these higher doses are limited. Therefore, a benefit: risk assessment should be made on an individual patient level to determine whether the potential benefits of treatment are considered to outweigh the known increased risk of toxicity at higher Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal doses (see section 4.4).

HIV associated Cryptococcal meningitis

Administer a single dose of 10 mg/kg liposomal amphotericin B on day 1, in combination with daily flucytosine 100 mg/kg and daily fluconazole 1200 mg, both administered for 14 days.

After the 2-week induction period, patients should receive fluconazole 800 mg daily for 8 weeks and then at a dose of 200 mg daily thereafter at the treating physician's discretion.

Treatment of visceral leishmaniasis

A total dose of 21.0 - 30.0 mg/kg of body weight given over 10-21 days may be used in the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis. Particulars as to the optimal dosage and the eventual development of resistance are as yet incomplete. The product should be administered under strict medical supervision.

Empirical treatment of febrile neutropenia

The recommended daily dose is 3 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg body weight per day. Treatment should be continued until the recorded temperature is normalised for 3 consecutive days. In any event, treatment should be discontinued after a maximum of 42 days.

Paediatric population

Both systemic fungal infections in children and presumed fungal infections in children with febrile neutropenia have been successfully treated with liposomal amphotericin B, without reports of unusual adverse events. Liposomal amphotericin B has been studied in paediatric patients aged one month to 18 years old. Doses used in these clinical studies were the same as those used in adults on a mg/kg body weight basis.

Liposomal amphotericin B is not recommended for use in children below 1 month old due to lack of data on safety and efficacy.

Elderly patients

No alteration in dose or frequency of dosing is required.

Renal impairment

Liposomal amphotericin B has been administered to a large number of patients with pre-existing renal impairment at starting doses ranging from 1-3 mg/kg/day in clinical trials and no adjustment in dose or frequency of administration was required (See section 4.4).

Hepatic impairment

No data are available on which to make a dose recommendation for patients with hepatic impairment (See section 4.4).

Method of administration

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal should be administered by intravenous infusion over a 30 - 60-minute period and the patient closely observed. For doses greater than 5mg/kg/day, intravenous infusion over a 2-hour period is recommended (see section 4.4). The recommended concentration for intravenous infusion is 0.20 mg/ml to 2.00 mg/ml amphotericin B as Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal.

For instructions on reconstitution and dilution of the product before administration, see section 6.6.

4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1 unless, in the opinion of the physician, the condition requiring treatment is life-threatening and amenable only to Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal therapy.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions

Anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions have been reported in association with liposomal amphotericin B infusion. Allergic type reactions, including severe infusion-related reactions can occur during administration of amphotericin-containing products, including Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal (see section 4.8). Therefore, every dose of liposomal amphotericin B should be infused over 30-60 minutes and the patient closely monitored every time. If a severe allergic or anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reaction occurs, the infusion should be immediately discontinued and the patient should not receive further infusion of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal.

Infusion-related reactions

Other severe infusion-related reactions can occur during administration of amphotericin B containing products, including Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal (see section 4.8). Although infusion-related reactions are not usually serious, consideration of precautionary measures for the prevention or treatment of these reactions should be given to patients who receive Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal therapy. Slower infusion rates (over 2 hours) or routine doses of diphenhydramine, paracetamol, pethidine and/or hydrocortisone have been reported as successful in their prevention or treatment.

Renal toxicity

Liposomal amphotericin B has been shown to be substantially less toxic than conventional amphotericin B, particularly with respect to nephrotoxicity; however, renal adverse reactions may still occur.

In studies comparing liposomal amphotericin B 3 mg/kg daily with higher doses (5, 6 or 10 mg/kg daily), it was found that the incidence rates of increased serum creatinine, hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia were notably higher in the high dose groups. In particular, caution should be exercised when prolonged therapy is required.

Regular laboratory evaluation of serum electrolytes, particularly potassium and magnesium as well as renal, hepatic and haematopoietic function should be performed at least once weekly. Renal function should be closely monitored in these patients. Due to the risk of hypokalaemia, appropriate potassium supplementation may be required during the course of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal administration. If clinically significant reduction in renal function or worsening of other parameters occurs, consideration should be given to dose reduction, treatment interruption or discontinuation. Cases of hyperkalaemia (some of them leading to cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac arrest) have been reported. Most of them occurred in patients with renal impairment, and some cases after potassium supplementation in patients with previous hypokalaemia. Therefore, renal function and laboratory evaluation of potassium, should be measured before and during treatment. This is particularly important in patients with pre-existing renal disease, who have already experienced renal failure, or in patients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic medications (see section 4.5).

Pulmonary toxicity

Acute pulmonary toxicity has been reported in patients given amphotericin B (as sodium deoxycholate complex) during or shortly after leukocyte transfusions. It is recommended that these infusions are separated by as long a period as possible and pulmonary function should be monitored.

Diabetic patients

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal contains approximately 900 mg of sucrose in each vial. This should be taken into account when treating diabetic patients.

Sodium

Each vial / dose of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal contains less than 1 mmol (23 mg) sodium, which is essentially sodium-free.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

No specific interaction studies have been performed with liposomal amphotericin B. However, the following drugs are known to interact with amphotericin B and may interact with Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal:

Nephrotoxic medications: Concurrent administration of liposomal amphotericin B with other nephrotoxic agents (for example ciclosporin, aminoglycosides, polymixins, tacrolimus and pentamidine) may enhance the potential for drug-induced renal toxicity in some patients. However, in patients receiving concomitant ciclosporin and/or aminoglycosides, liposomal amphotericin B was associated with significantly less nephrotoxicity compared to amphotericin B. Regular monitoring of renal function is recommended in patients receiving liposomal amphotericin B with any nephrotoxic medications.

Corticosteroids, corticotropin (ACTH) and diuretics: Concurrent use of corticosteroids, ACTH and diuretics (loop and thiazide) may potentiate hypokalaemia.

Digitalis glycosides: Liposomal amphotericin B-induced hypokalaemia may potentiate digitalis toxicity.

Skeletal muscle relaxants: Liposomal amphotericin B-induced hypokalaemia may enhance the curariform effect of skeletal muscle relaxants (e.g. tubocurarine).

Antifungals: Whilst synergy between amphotericin and flucytosine has been reported, concurrent use may increase the toxicity of flucytosine by possibly increasing its cellular uptake and/or impairing its renal excretion, therefore a benefit:risk assessment should be made on an individual patient level.

Antineoplastic agents: Concurrent use of antineoplastic agents may enhance the potential for renal toxicity, bronchospasm and hypotension. Antineoplastic agents should be given concomitantly with caution.

Leukocyte transfusions: Acute pulmonary toxicity has been reported in patients given amphotericin B (as sodium deoxycholate complex) during or shortly after leukocyte transfusions. It is recommended these infusions are separated by as long a period as possible and pulmonary function should be monitored.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Fertility

Animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3).

Pregnancy

The safety of liposomal amphotericin B in pregnant women has not been established.

Systemic fungal infections have been successfully treated in pregnant women with conventional amphotericin B without obvious effect on the foetus, but the number of cases reported is insufficient to draw any conclusions on the safety of liposomal amphotericin B in pregnancy.

Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal should only be used during pregnancy if the possible benefits to be derived outweigh the potential risks to the mother and foetus.

Breast-feeding

It is unknown whether liposomal amphotericin B is excreted in human breast milk. A decision on whether to breastfeed while receiving this medicine should take into account the potential risk to the child as well as the benefit of breast feeding for the child and the benefit of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal therapy for the mother.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. Some of the undesirable effects of liposomal amphotericin B presented below may impact the ability to drive and use machines.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of adverse reactions

The following adverse reactions have been attributed to liposomal amphotericin B based on clinical trial data and post-marketing experience. The frequency is based on analysis from pooled clinical trials of 688 liposomal amphotericin treated patients; the frequency of adverse reactions identified from post-marketing experience is not known. Adverse reactions are listed below by body system organ class using MedDRA and are sorted by frequency. Within each frequency grouping, undesirable effects are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

Frequencies are defined as:

Very common

Common

Uncommon

Very Rare

Not known

≥ (1/10)

(≥ 1/100 to < 1/10)

(≥ 1/1000 to < 1/100)

(<1/10000)

(cannot be estimated from the available data)

System-Organ

Very common

Common

Uncommon

Very rare

Not known

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

thrombocytopenia

anaemia

Immune system disorders

Anaphylactoid reaction

anaphylactic reactions, hypersensitivity

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

hypokalaemia

hyponatremia, hypocalcaemia, hypomagnesaemia, hyperglycaemia hyperkalaemia

Nervous system disorders

Headache

Convulsion

Cardiac disorders

tachycardia

cardiac arrest, arrhythmia

Vascular disorders

Hypotension, vasodilatation, flushing

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Dyspnoea

Bronchospasm

Gastrointestinal disorders

Nausea, vomiting

Diarrhoea, abdominal pain

Hepatobiliary disorders

abnormal liver function tests, hyperbilirubinaemia, increased alkaline phosphatase

Skin and subcutaneous disorders

Rash

Angioneurotic oedema

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Back pain

rhabdomyolysis (associated with hypokalaemia), musculoskeletal pain (described as arthralgia or bone pain).

Renal and urinary disorders

increased creatinine, increased blood urea

renal failure, renal insufficiency

General disorders and administration site conditions

Rigors, pyrexia

Chest pain

Description of selected adverse reactions

Infusion-related reactions

Fever and chills/rigors are the most frequent infusion-related reactions expected to occur during liposomal amphotericin B administration. Less frequent infusion-related reactions may consist of one or more of the following symptoms: chest tightness or pain, dyspnoea, bronchospasm, flushing, tachycardia, hypotension and musculoskeletal pain (described as arthralgia, back pain, or bone pain). These resolve rapidly on stopping the infusion and may not occur with every subsequent dose or when slower infusion rates (over 2 hours) are used. In addition, infusion-related reactions may also be prevented by the use of premedication. However, severe infusion-related reactions may necessitate the permanent discontinuation of Amphotericin B Tillomed liposomal (see section 4.4).

In two double-blind, comparative studies, liposomal amphotericin B treated patients experienced a significantly lower incidence of infusion-related reactions, as compared to patients treated with conventional amphotericin B or amphotericin B lipid complex.

In pooled study data from randomised, controlled clinical trials comparing liposomal amphotericin B with conventional amphotericin B therapy in greater than 1,000 patients, reported adverse reactions were considerably less severe and less frequent in liposomal amphotericin B treated patients as compared with conventional amphotericin B treated patients.

A randomised phase III study assessed a single 10 mg/kg dose of liposomal amphotericin B with a backbone of 14 days flucytosine and fluconazole, compared to the control group (1-week conventional amphotericin B plus flucytosine followed by 1 week of fluconazole) in the treatment of HIV associated cryptococcal meningitis. The liposomal amphotericin B treated patients experienced fewer grade 3 or 4 adverse events compared to the control group. The safety profile observed in this patient population was consistent with the overall safety profile for liposomal amphotericin B.

Renal toxicity

Nephrotoxicity occurs to some degree with conventional amphotericin B in most patients receiving the product intravenously. In a double-blind study involving 687 patients, the incidence of nephrotoxicity with liposomal amphotericin B (as measured by serum creatinine increase greater than 2.0 times baseline measurement), was approximately half that for conventional amphotericin B. In another double-blind study involving 244 patients, the incidence of nephrotoxicity with liposomal amphotericin B (as measured by serum creatinine increase greater than 2.0 times baseline measurement) was approximately half that for amphotericin B lipid complex.

Interference with Phosphorus Chemistry Assay

False elevations of serum phosphate may occur when samples from patients receiving liposomal amphotericin B are analysed using the PHOSm assay (e.g. used in Beckman Coulter analysers including the Synchron LX20). This assay is intended for the quantitative determination of inorganic phosphorus in human serum, plasma or urine samples.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

The toxicity of liposomal amphotericin B due to acute overdose has not been defined. If overdose should occur, cease administration immediately. Carefully monitor clinical status including renal and hepatic function, serum electrolytes and haematological status. Haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis does not appear to affect the elimination of liposomal amphotericin B.

Special populations (including paediatric population):

No additional information is available in special populations

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Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

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