Abelcet is a specific antifungal medication, known as amphotericin B lipid complex, used to address severe fungal infections. It combats serious fungal infections by disrupting fungal cell structure, leading to their demise. This medication is reserved for patients who have not responded well to, or cannot tolerate, conventional forms of amphotericin B. Abelcet’s lipid formulation helps reduce toxic effects, especially kidney-related issues, often associated with standard amphotericin B.
What Abelcet Treats
Abelcet is prescribed for severe, life-threatening fungal infections that have proven resistant to other treatments. This antifungal targets various invasive fungal infections, including those caused by Aspergillus and Candida species. It is used for conditions such as invasive aspergillosis, a serious lung infection, and candidiasis, which can manifest as bloodstream infections (candidemia) or infections in deep tissue areas like the stomach and wounds.
The medication also shows activity against other fungal pathogens, such as Cryptococcus, Coccidioides, Histoplasma, and Blastomyces species. It is considered a second-line therapy.
How Abelcet is Administered
Abelcet is administered intravenously, delivered directly into a patient’s vein through an IV drip. This medication must be given in a medical setting, such as a hospital or an outpatient infusion center, under the careful supervision of healthcare professionals. The preparation involves gently shaking the vial to ensure no yellow sediment remains, then withdrawing the appropriate dose into a syringe.
The medication is then filtered using a 5-micron filter needle and added to an IV bag containing a 5% Dextrose Injection. It is important that Abelcet is not diluted with saline solutions or mixed with other drugs or electrolytes, as their compatibility has not been established. The infusion is administered slowly, at a rate of 2.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per hour, over about two hours. During and after the infusion, patients are closely monitored for any reactions.
Managing Potential Side Effects
Patients receiving Abelcet may experience various side effects. Common side effects include chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, and headache, which appear within one to two hours of infusion, especially with initial doses. Dizziness, loss of appetite, and changes in kidney function tests are also reported. Healthcare providers may administer other medications, such as acetaminophen or diphenhydramine, before treatment to help prevent these reactions.
More serious adverse reactions can occur. These include kidney problems, which may present as little or no urination, swelling in the feet or ankles, or feeling unusually tired or short of breath. Liver issues, electrolyte imbalances such as low potassium, magnesium, or calcium levels, and severe allergic reactions are also possible. Symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, easy bruising, or unusual bleeding warrant immediate medical attention.
Important Safety Considerations
Before starting Abelcet, inform the healthcare provider about any allergies to amphotericin B or other components, as hypersensitivity is a contraindication. Patients should also disclose any history of kidney disease, liver disease, heart conditions, or electrolyte imbalances. Concomitant use of certain medications can increase the risk of adverse effects; for example, anticancer drugs can enhance the potential for kidney toxicity, bronchospasm, and low blood pressure.
Other drugs that may interact include azole antifungals, cidofovir, digoxin, flucytosine, and medications that affect kidney function, such as aminoglycosides. Corticosteroids and corticotropin (ACTH) may potentiate low potassium levels, which could affect heart function. Regular medical monitoring is necessary during treatment, including tests for kidney function (serum creatinine levels), liver function, and electrolyte levels (especially magnesium and potassium), along with complete blood counts. The safety and effectiveness in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as well as in pediatric and geriatric patients, are considered on a case-by-case basis, weighing potential benefits against risks.