Colistimethate Sodium
Uses of Colistimethate Sodium
The primary use of Colistimethate Sodium is for managing serious bacterial infections, particularly those resistant to other antibiotics. It belongs to the class of polymyxin antibiotics.
Apart from this, it is also used in specific cases such as hospital-acquired pneumonia, ventilator-associated pneumonia, complicated urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, meningitis, and exacerbations of cystic fibrosis with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Side effects of Colistimethate Sodium
Dizziness
Vertigo (sense of spinning)
Headache
Bronchospasm (with inhaled use)
How Colistimethate Sodium works
Colistimethate Sodium is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria.
Colistimethate Sodium is an antibiotic, specifically a polymyxin antibiotic. It works by killing bacteria, known as having a bactericidal effect. It does this by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane.
Certified content
Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Colistimethate Sodium is administered via the intravenous or intramuscular route (injection) and it can also be administered by inhalation via a nebulizer.
Age and Dose Restrictions
Colistimethate Sodium is intended for use in adults and children of all age groups.
Contraindications
Colistimethate Sodium is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to polymyxin antibiotics.
It is also contraindicated in patients suffering from myasthenia gravis, a condition causing muscle weakness.
Other Medications to Avoid
Colistimethate Sodium may interact with aminoglycosides (such as gentamicin and amikacin), neuromuscular blocking agents (like pancuronium and vecuronium) and diuretics (such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide).
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Colistimethate Sodium may cause symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or even kidney problems. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
If you miss a dose of this medication, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
If you experience dizziness or vertigo, try lying down and resting until the symptoms pass.
For skin reactions like rash or itchiness, try using a gentle moisturizer or take a cool bath.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Since Colistimethate Sodium can cause dizziness or confusion, it may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is best to avoid such activities until you know how this medication affects you.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
The use of Colistimethate Sodium during pregnancy and lactation should be decided after consulting a doctor. The benefits and potential risks should be considered before deciding on its use.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with impaired renal function should exercise caution when using Colistimethate Sodium, as the medication is largely excreted by the kidneys.
Patients with neuromuscular disorders may also need to take extra precautions due to the risk of neuromuscular blockade caused by this medicine.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
As Colistimethate Sodium is used to manage severe bacterial infections, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help boost your immunity.
Regular hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of infections.
Frequently asked questions
Does Colistimethate Sodium have any effect on the menstruation cycle?
Colistimethate sodium generally does not affect the menstrual cycle. If you experience changes in your menstrual cycle while using this medication, consult your healthcare provider.
Is there a possibility of developing addiction with prolonged use of Colistimethate Sodium?
Colistimethate Sodium is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections and is not known to cause addiction. Prolonged use should be managed by a healthcare provider to prevent resistance and side effects.
What alternative salts or molecules are similar to Colistimethate Sodium?
There are no exact alternatives to Colistimethate Sodium as it is a specific antibiotic with unique properties. However, other antibiotics may be recommended by your doctor based on your specific health condition.
Does Colistimethate Sodium cause weight gain?
Colistimethate Sodium is not typically associated with weight gain. If you experience significant changes in weight while using this medication, consult your healthcare provider.
Is Colistimethate Sodium a type of steroid?
No, Colistimethate Sodium is not a steroid. It is a type of antibiotic, specifically classified as a polymyxin antibiotic, which is used to manage severe bacterial infections that are resistant to other antibiotics.
Does Colistimethate Sodium affect my sleep?
Colistimethate Sodium generally does not affect sleep. If you experience sleep disturbances while taking this medication, consult your healthcare provider.
Can Colistimethate Sodium have an impact on fertility?
Colistimethate Sodium typically does not impact fertility. If you have concerns about how it might affect your reproductive health, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider.
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