Colistin

About colistin

Colistin works by altering the bacterial cell membrane structure causing the cell contents to leak out. This results in bacterial death.

Oral colistin is used to sterilise (remove bacteria from) the bowel before surgery. It is not absorbed from the gut into the blood.

Inhaled colistin is used to treat chest infections in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Colistin injection is used to treat bacterial infections including chest and urinary tract infections and infections of the blood.

Before taking colistin

Before taking colistin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• If you have ever suffered from kidney problems
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease) or porphyria (a blood disorder)
• If you suffer from asthma
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or 'polymixin B'
• If you have a condition where you should not take sugars (colistin syrup contains sucrose)

How to take colistin

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor
• Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose:
• Colistin tablets, oral syrup and nebuliser solution - take the dose as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.
• Colistin injection - administer the dose as soon as you remember and then administer the next dose at least 8 hours later, as instructed by your doctor. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.
• Solutions are for single use; discard any remaining solution once a dose has been taken

Getting the most from your treatment

• Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of colistin. Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
• There is a small risk that oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking some colistin preparations. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, you may need to use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking colistin and for at least seven days after your course of colistin has finished. If you are taking an oral contraceptive, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

Can colistin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Possible side effects are described below.

How to store colistin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light

Important information about all medicines