How should amphotericin B be administered?

Study for the Pharmacology Antifungal Agents Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

Amphotericin B should be administered intravenously (IV) because this route of administration allows for effective delivery of the drug directly into the bloodstream, achieving the necessary high systemic concentrations required to treat serious fungal infections. Amphotericin B is a large molecule that is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; therefore, oral administration would not provide adequate therapeutic levels.

Additionally, the drug's potential for severe side effects, including nephrotoxicity and infusion-related reactions, means it is essential to control its delivery closely, which is most effectively done through intravenous administration in a controlled clinical setting. Other routes like intramuscular or subcutaneous injections are not appropriate for amphotericin B due to similar absorption issues and the risk of local irritation or inadequate drug levels. Thus, the intravenous route is the most effective and safe choice for administering amphotericin B in the treatment of systemic fungal infections.

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