GENERIC NAME: COLISTIMETHATE - INJECTABLE (koe-lis-ti-METH-ate)

BRAND NAME(S): Coly-Mycin M

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Colistimethate is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of serious bacterial infections (e.g., gram negative infections such as Pseudomonas or Klebsiella).

HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for the proper mixing, dilution with the correct IV fluids, and dosing schedule. If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Once the mixing solution has been added to the vial, gently swirl or roll the vial back and forth between your hands. Do not shake the vial. Before using, check this product visually for any unusual particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Inject this medication into a vein (IV) or into a muscle (IM) as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. Do not mix this medication to be used at a later time. Only use freshly mixed vials and/or IV solutions. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, give this drug at evenly spaced intervals. Continue to use this medication until the fully-prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea/vomiting, itching, and rash may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: tingling or numbness in the arms/legs or tongue, slurred speech, dizziness, fever, lightheadedness, trouble breathing, change (decrease) in amount of urine, diarrhea. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral or vaginal fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.