Colistim Ingredients and Usage

The active ingredient is Colistimethate Sodium, a polymyxin E antibiotic derivative. The 1 MIU vial requires reconstitution and administration as slow intravenous infusion.

Colistim is clinically indicated for:

• Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections
• Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii pneumonia
• CRE (Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae) infections
• Ventilator-associated pneumonia in ICU settings

How Does Colistim Work?

Colistim provides bactericidal activity through membrane disruption:

1. Membrane Binding: Attaches to lipopolysaccharides in bacterial outer membrane
2. Cell Permeability: Increases membrane permeability causing content leakage
3. Bacterial Lysis: Leads to osmotic imbalance and cell death
4. Concentration-Dependent Killing: Higher peak concentrations improve efficacy

Colistim Side Effects and Warnings

Common side effects include nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and respiratory depression. Most effects are dose-related and require careful monitoring.

Serious Considerations

1. Nephrotoxicity: Mandatory renal function monitoring throughout therapy
2. Neuromuscular Blockade: May cause respiratory muscle weakness
3. Dosing Precision: Requires calculation based on ideal body weight
4. Drug Interactions: Enhanced toxicity with other nephrotoxic agents
5. Loading Dose: Essential for rapid achievement of therapeutic levels

Colistim Storage Conditions

Colistim Injection requires strict storage protocols:

• Store below 25°C protected from light
• Use reconstituted solution within 24 hours if refrigerated
• Protect from moisture and freezing
• Discard if solution appears discolored or contains precipitate
• Follow aseptic preparation guidelines strictly