Colistimethate

Colistimethate Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Colistimethate is a brand name. Its generic name is Colistimethate.

Colistimethate Introduction

Colistimethate, also known as Colistin, is an antibacterial agent belonging to a class of medications called polymyxins. It is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria.

Uses for Colistimethate

Colistimethate is used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria that are resistant to other drugs, such as those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Acinetobacter species, and some Staphylococcus species. It is also used to prevent certain infections in patients who are at risk for them.

Mechanism of Action

Colistimethate works by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. It works by disrupting the cell wall of the bacteria, making them more susceptible to the body's normal immune response. This helps to reduce infection and improve patient outcomes.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Colistimethate usually starts to work within 1 to 2 days after it is taken. However, it may take up to 2 weeks for the full benefits of the medication to be seen.

Absorption

Colistimethate is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but can be directly absorbed from the lungs, making it useful for treating infections of the respiratory system. It is also eliminated from the body via the kidneys and feces.

Route of Elimination

Colistimethate is eliminated from the body via the kidneys and feces.

Dosage

The usual adult dose of colistimethate is 0.5 to 3 million units once or twice daily. The dose should be individualized based on the severity of the infection, the response to treatment, and any toxicities.

Administration

Colistimethate should be taken orally, or by IV or inhalation depending on the nature of the infection. It should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of colistimethate are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Additionally, it can cause kidney damage, hearing loss, and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).

Toxicity

Colistimethate can be toxic if taken in large doses or if taken for prolonged periods of time. Symptoms of toxicity include weakness, confusion, seizures, and coma. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Precautions

Colistimethate should be used with caution in patients with known or suspected kidney disease, as it can cause further kidney damage. Additionally, it should be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as in children.

Interactions

Colistimethate can interact with other medications, such as antacids, diuretics, and antifungals. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking colistimethate if you are taking any other medications.

Disease Interactions

Colistimethate can interact with certain diseases, such as kidney disease. If you have a known or suspected kidney disease, talk to your doctor before starting colistimethate.

Drug Interactions

Colistimethate can interact with certain drugs, such as antacids, diuretics, and antifungals. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking colistimethate if you are taking any other medications.

Food Interactions

Colistimethate can interact with certain foods, such as dairy products and calcium-rich foods. It is recommended to take colistimethate with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Colistimethate should be used with caution in pregnant women, as it can cross the placenta and may be harmful to the developing baby. Talk to your doctor about the potential risks versus benefits before using colistimethate during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Colistimethate should not be used during breastfeeding due to the potential for harm to the infant. Talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.

Acute Overdose

If you think you've taken too much colistimethate, seek medical attention right away. Symptoms of an acute overdose include weakness, confusion, seizures, and coma.

Contraindications

Colistimethate should not be used in patients who are hypersensitive to it or any of its components. Additionally, it should not be used in patients with severe kidney disease, as it may further damage the kidney.

Use Directions

Colistimethate should be taken as directed by your doctor. The usual adult dose is 0.5 to 3 million units once or twice daily. It should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. Do not take two doses at once.

Storage Conditions

Colistimethate should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Colistimethate has a volume of distribution of 0.2 to 0.3 liters/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of colistimethate is approximately 20 to 60 minutes.

Clearance

Colistimethate has a clearance of 0.05 to 0.1 ml/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Colistimethate

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Colistimethate

1. What is Colistimethate?

Colistimethate sodium is an antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections that are resistant to other treatments. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called polymyxins.

2. How does Colistimethate work?

Colistimethate works by killing bacteria that cause infection. It does this by binding to a certain component of the bacterial cell membrane and causing damage to it. This renders the bacteria unable to survive or replicate.

3. What kind of infections is Colistimethate used to treat?

Colistimethate is commonly used to treat serious bacterial infections, including those caused by respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and wound infections.

4. How long is Colistimethate treatment usually given?

The length of treatment with Colistimethate will depend on the severity of the infection and the response to treatment. Your doctor will determine the length of treatment based on your individual case.

5. What are the potential side effects of Colistimethate?

Common side effects of Colistimethate include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Severe side effects can include anaphylactic shock, allergic reactions, and kidney damage.

6. How should Colistimethate be stored?

Colistimethate should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight or stored in damp or moist areas.

7. Does Colistimethate interact with other medications?

Colistimethate can interact with certain medications, such as antacids or antibiotics, so it is important to let your doctor know about all medications that you are taking.

8. Is Colismithate safe for use in pregnant or nursing women?

The safety of Colistimethate in pregnant or nursing women has not been established, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking Colistimethate during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.

9. Should Colistimethate be taken with food?

Colistimethate can be taken with or without food, but it is important to take it regularly and at the same time every day in order to get the most benefit from it.

10. Is Colistimethate suitable for children?

Colistimethate is not suitable for use in children. There are other antibiotics that can be used to treat infections in children, so it is important to talk to your doctor before prescribing Colistimethate.

11. Can Colistimethate be used to treat viral infections?

No, Colistimethate is an antibiotic and is only effective in treating bacterial infections. It is not effective against viral or fungal infections.

12. How long does it take for Colistimethate to work?

Colistimethate usually begins to work within 12-24 hours. It is important to continue taking the medication for the full course of treatment in order to completely get rid of the infection.

13. Is Colistimethate the same as Polymyxin?

No, though they are both part of the polymyxin class of antibiotics, Colistimethate is a form of Polymyxin that has been modified to make it more effective.

14. Does Colistimethate interact with alcohol?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Colistimethate, as alcohol can increase the side effects of the medication.

15. What should I do if I miss a dose of Colistimethate?

If you miss a dose of Colistimethate, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled.

16. Can I take Colistimethate with other antibiotics?

It is generally not recommended to take Colistimethate with other antibiotics. Your doctor will determine if this is safe for your individual case.

17. Is Colistimethate an over-the-counter medication?

No, Colistimethate is a prescription antibiotic, and must be prescribed by a doctor.

18. What should I do if I experience side effects with Colistimethate?

If you experience side effects with Colistimethate, contact your doctor for advice. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.

19. What are the precautions I should take while taking Colistimethate?

Some precautions to take while taking Colistimethate include drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol, and avoiding direct sunlight. You should also ask your doctor about any other precautions you should take.

20. Can Colistimethate be used to treat fungal infections?

No, Colistimethate is not effective in treating fungal infections.

21. What are the potential drug interactions with Colistimethate?

Potential drug interactions with Colistimethate include antacids, antibiotics, and other medications. It is important to discuss your medication history with your doctor before taking Colistimethate.

22. Are there any lifestyle changes I need to make while taking Colistimethate?

There are no specific lifestyle changes that need to be made while taking Colistimethate. However, it is important to follow the instructions from your doctor and take the medication as prescribed.

23. Should I take Colistimethate with food or on an empty stomach?

Colistimethate can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to take it regularly and at the same time every day in order to get the most benefit from it.

24. Can I drink alcohol while taking Colistimethate?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Colistimethate, as alcohol can increase the side effects of the medication.

25. Can Colistimethate cause allergic reactions?

Yes, Colistimethate can cause allergic reactions, and in rare cases, anaphylactic shock. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

26. What should I do if I experience nausea or vomiting while taking Colistimethate?

If you experience nausea or vomiting while taking Colistimethate, contact your doctor for advice. It is important to take the medication as prescribed in order to get the full therapeutic benefit.

27. Can Colistimethate be used to treat a sinus infection?

Yes, Colistimethate can be used to treat a sinus infection if it is caused by a bacterial infection.

28. How long does it take for Colistimethate to start working?

Colistimethate usually begins to work within 12-24 hours, although it can take up to 48 hours for the full therapeutic effect to be achieved.

29. Is Colistimethate safe for use in children?

No, Colistimethate is not suitable for use in children. There are other antibiotics that can be used to treat infections in children, so it is important to talk to your doctor before prescribing Colistimethate.

30. Is Colismithate safe to use during pregnancy?

The safety of Colistimethate during pregnancy has not been established. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Colistimethate during pregnancy.