Use of high-dose liposomal amphotericin B: efficacy and tolerance

Jorge Garbino1, Angeline Adam

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. jorge.garbino@hcuge.ch

Insights

Liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) is a safer first-line treatment for fungal infections than older drugs. Higher doses of L-AmB show promise as a new option for difficult-to-treat cases.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Fungal infections are rising, necessitating effective treatments.
  • Amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmBd) was standard but caused severe kidney damage.
  • Liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) offers reduced nephrotoxicity with maintained efficacy.

Observation:

  • Published data indicate higher L-AmB doses are used when standard doses fail.
  • Animal models and early clinical data support L-AmB's use in invasive fungal infections.

Findings:

  • Liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) is now the preferred initial therapy for fungal infections.
  • Higher dosages of L-AmB are emerging as a viable strategy for treatment-resistant invasive fungal infections.

Implications:

  • L-AmB represents a significant advancement in managing invasive fungal infections.
  • Exploring higher L-AmB doses could expand treatment options and improve patient outcomes for refractory cases.

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