Description
Patients with the following infections, when brought on by susceptible strains of the specified aerobic gram-negative bacteria, can be treated with Polymyxin- B injection:
- Urinary tract infections: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli are the culprits.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes (previously known as Aerobacter), and Klebsiella pneumonia are the three main causes of bloodstream infections.
- Meningeal infections: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the culprit.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the cause of eye infections in the cornea and subconjunctival.
Dosage and Side Effects
Only hospitalized patients may get the required dosage of Polymyxin B Injection intravenously, intramuscularly, or intrathecally, under the continual observation of a medical practitioner. The daily dosage of polymyxin B shouldn’t be more than 200 mg or 2.5 mg/kg.
The negative effects of polymyxin B that are most frequently reported are urticaria, neurotoxicity, discomfort at the injection site, and electrolyte imbalance.
FAQ's
What does Polymyxin-B treat?
It’s effective against specific gram-negative bacteria causing infections like urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, meningeal infections, and eye infections in the cornea and subconjunctiva.
How is Polymyxin-B administered?
Typically administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or intrathecally to hospitalized patients under strict medical supervision. The daily dosage should not exceed 200 mg or 2.5 mg/kg.
What are the common side effects of Polymyxin-B?
Frequently reported side effects include urticaria, neurotoxicity, discomfort at the injection site, and electrolyte imbalance.
Are there any precautions for using Polymyxin-B?
It’s not advisable for individuals with prior hypersensitivity reactions. It should be strictly reserved for treating susceptible bacterial infections to prevent drug resistance. Patients with myasthenia gravis should avoid it, and kidney function needs regular monitoring due to potential kidney-related issues.
Is Polymyxin B FDA approved?
Yes, Polymyxin B and its classmate, Polymyxin E (colistin), are FDA-approved for treating serious drug-resistant gram-negative bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii.