Objective: To review the data examining the use of rapid infusion of amphotericin B in dextrose infusions.
Data sources: A MEDLINE search of the English-language literature and review of pertinent references' bibliographies was used to identify articles evaluating the effect of amphotericin B infusion rates on the incidence of adverse reactions.
Study selection and data extraction: Controlled and uncontrolled studies involving humans are reviewed; emphasis is placed on recent comparative trials. Pertinent information, as judged by the authors, was selected for discussion.
Data synthesis: Amphotericin B, a polyene antifungal agent with significant toxicity, remains the agent of choice for many serious fungal infections. The potential benefits of rapid administration of amphotericin B in reducing the incidence and/or severity of adverse reactions were noted soon after its introduction. Recent studies have examined the tolerability of rapid (0.75-1 h) amphotericin B infusions. Results of studies assessing the tolerability of rapid amphotericin B infusions suggest that tolerance to infusion-related reactions develops during therapy. Comparative trials have obtained variable results. The comparative trials supporting rapid amphotericin B infusion have generally used crossover designs, enrolled small numbers of patients, and excluded patients with significant renal or cardiovascular dysfunction.
Conclusions: Rapid amphotericin B infusions should be avoided during initiation of therapy when infusion-related reactions tend to be most problematic, and in patients with cardiovascular disease, renal dysfunction, and potassium disorders because of the potential risk for cardiac arrhythmias. The literature currently available is conflicting and insufficient to support the routine use of rapid amphotericin B infusion.