About colistin
Polymyxin antibiotic
Used for
- Serious infections caused by susceptible Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter.
Usual adult dose
Usually 2.5–5 mg colistin base activity/kg/day intravenously, divided every 12 hours; dose is adjusted for kidney function.
Usual dose in children
Children: dosing is specialist-directed and varies by age, weight, kidney function, and infection.
Common side effects
- Kidney damage
- Tingling, dizziness, or muscle weakness
- Breathing difficulty from muscle weakness
- Injection-site reactions
Important warnings
- Kidney toxicity can be severe; kidney function and blood levels may need monitoring.
- Neuromuscular effects can impair breathing, especially with kidney problems.
- Use only for susceptible serious infections; resistance may occur.
- Dosing units and product labeling vary; colistin base activity is not interchangeable with international units.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; human pregnancy safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Limited information is available; effects on a nursing infant are uncertain.
Interactions
- Other kidney-toxic medicines, including aminoglycosides and vancomycin, may increase kidney injury.
- Neuromuscular blockers and some anesthetics may increase muscle weakness or breathing problems.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.