Uses of Colistin

Colistin is used to treat bacterial infections of the gut (stomach and intestines). It is used to treat certain forms of serious bacterial infections of gut when other antibiotics are not suitable. It is clinically effective in treating various infections caused due to the certain gram-negative bacteria such as Aerobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. 

Therapeutic Category

Colistin: Antibiotics (Polymyxins)

How Colistin works

Colistin 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 Colistin

• nausea, vomiting
• dizziness
• skin rash

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience, any signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience inability to breathe because of paralysis of the chest muscles, sense of tingling or numbness especially around the face, feeling dizzy, loss of balance, rapid changes in blood pressure or blood flow causing flushing or fainting, problems in speech, problems with vision, confusion, and mental problems (including loss of sense of reality)
• If you experience kidney damage with symptoms such as little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath

Health Tips for Colistin

• Maintain proper hydration by drinking an adequate amount of water. Sufficient hydration helps flush out toxins and promotes kidney function, reducing the risk of potential kidney damage associated with colistin use