Amphotericin B
Amphotericin B is a potent antifungal medication used to treat serious fungal infections. It works by binding to ergosterol, a critical component of fungal cell membranes, creating pores that destabilize the membrane.
Amphotericin B is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent used to treat serious systemic and localized fungal infections.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A01AB04
- RxNorm
- 732
- Generic
- Amphotericin B
- Class
- atc-a01
- Brands
- AmBisome, Abelcet
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral, topical
- Forms
- injection, tablet, cream, suspension, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 3-5 mg/kg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 3-5 mg/kg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 3-5 mg/kg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks - use only for life-threatening fungal infections
regular fetal monitoring, ultrasound assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks, consider alternative antifungals if available
regular fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring, assess amniotic fluid
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
considered compatible with breastfeeding, minimal excretion into breast milk
no specific monitoring required
pediatric_age
neonatesweight-based dosing required
use with extreme caution in neonates, especially premature infants, renal function monitoring essential
close monitoring of renal and hepatic function, electrolyte levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
childrenweight-based dosing, typically 1 mg/kg daily
use under close supervision, monitor renal and hepatic function
regular renal function tests, electrolytes, liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyconsider dose reduction, start at lower end of dosing range
increased sensitivity to nephrotoxic effects, assess renal function before and during treatment
frequent renal function monitoring, electrolyte checks, hydration status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mildno major dose adjustment needed
monitor renal function closely, ensure adequate hydration
regular serum creatinine, BUN, electrolytes
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severedose reduction may be required, consider liposomal formulation
use liposomal amphotericin B (AmBisome) when available, may require dialysis-free intervals
frequent renal function monitoring, consider therapeutic drug monitoring if available
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno specific guidelines, use with caution
use with caution, monitor liver function tests
regular liver function tests, bilirubin monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severelimited data, use lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks, consider alternatives if available
frequent liver function monitoring, bilirubin levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
AmBisome (liposomal amphotericin B) was the first approved formulation
Drug class
Systemic antifungal - J02AA
Common uses
Treatment of life-threatening fungal and protozoal infections
Mechanism of action
Fungicidal activity against broad spectrum of yeasts and molds
Treatment of severe systemic fungal infections including cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, and candidiasis. Also used for aspergillosis and mucormycosis. The oral formulation (ATC A01) is used for oromucosal fungal infections such as oral candidiasis.
Amphotericin B binds to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, forming pores that disrupt membrane integrity. This leads to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately fungal cell death. It may also stimulate immune cell activity against fungi.
Common side effects include fever, chills, headache, and muscle pain during infusion. Kidney toxicity is a significant concern requiring monitoring of renal function. Patients should be well hydrated and may receive pre-medications to manage infusion-related reactions. Drug interactions can occur with other nephrotoxic medications and potassium-wasting diuretics.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy