Uses of Colistimethate

Colistimethate is used to treat is used to treat bacterial infections of the gut. It can also be used for cleansing the bowel (intestine) before surgery to prevent risk of bacterial infections in the gut post-surgery. 

Therapeutic Category

Colistimethate: Antibiotics (polymyxin class)

How Colistimethate works

Colistimethate kills the susceptible bacteria that causes infection. It acts by disrupting the composition (lipids and protein) of the bacterial cell membrane and enters the bacterial cell. This causes the contents of the bacterial cell to leak out which subsequently leads to bacterial killing. It may also inactivate the effects of toxins produced by the harmful bacteria.

Common side effects of Colistimethate

• nausea, vomiting
• dizziness
• confusion
• muscle weakness
• difficulty in breathing
• upset stomach 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience severe allergic reaction (such as skin rash, itching, sudden swelling of the face, throat or lips leading to wheezing or breathing difficulties)
• If you experience nerve pain
• If you experience kidney damage with symptoms such as little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles and feeling tired or short of breath
• If you experience severe colitis which can be fatal (bowel disease)

Health Tips for Colistimethate

• Try to take this medicine with or just after a meal or a snack. Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating oil rich or spicy food.
• Try to rest and relax. Get enough sleep. Avoid driving or operating any tools or machines completely if you feel dizzy. Do not consume excessive alcohol, as it could aggravate your dizziness
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay well-hydrated and help flush out the medication from your system
• Proper hand hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infections. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Follow infection control measures.These may include covering wounds, isolating contagious individuals, or avoiding contact with certain environments or people