Amphotericin B

Amphotericin B is a polyene antifungal medication used for serious fungal infections. It binds fungal membrane ergosterol and disrupts membrane function, causing leakage of cellular contents.

Ergosterol: Ergosterol is the principal sterol in fungal cell membranes and helps regulate membrane structure and function. Amphotericin B binds this fungal membrane sterol, helping explain its activity against fungi.
Invasive candidiasis: Invasive candidiasis is a bloodstream or deep-organ infection caused by Candida species. Amphotericin B is used for severe or resistant cases when systemic treatment is needed.
Liposomal amphotericin B: Liposomal amphotericin B is a formulation that packages the drug in lipid vesicles to alter its distribution and toxicity. It generally causes less kidney toxicity than conventional amphotericin B.
Nephrotoxicity: Nephrotoxicity is kidney injury caused by exposure to a drug or other harmful substance. Amphotericin B can reduce kidney blood flow and damage tubular cells.
Pore-forming toxin: A pore-forming toxin creates openings in cell membranes that disrupt their barrier function. Amphotericin B can form membrane channels that allow ions and small molecules to leak out.
Cryptococcal meningitis: Cryptococcal meningitis is a potentially life-threatening infection of the brain and its coverings caused by Cryptococcus fungi. Amphotericin B is a core induction treatment, commonly combined with flucytosine.
Amphotericin B deoxycholate: Amphotericin B deoxycholate is the conventional intravenous formulation of amphotericin B. It is less costly than lipid formulations but often causes more infusion reactions and kidney injury.
Infusion reaction: An infusion reaction is an adverse response occurring during or shortly after intravenous drug administration. Amphotericin B infusions can cause fever, chills, rigors, and low blood pressure.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is the principal sterol in animal cell membranes and helps regulate their fluidity. Amphotericin B also interacts with cholesterol, contributing to harm in human tissues.
Mucormycosis: Mucormycosis is an invasive infection caused by fungi in the order Mucorales. High-dose amphotericin B is a principal initial antifungal treatment for this rapidly progressive infection.

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