Amphotericin B-induced nephrotoxicity is manifested as azotaemia, renal tubular acidosis, impaired renal concentrating ability and electrolyte abnormalities like hypokalaemia and sodium and magnesium wasting. All these abnormalities occur to varying degrees in almost all patients receiving the drug.

How does amphotericin B cause nephrotoxicity?

Amphotericin B binds to sterols in cell membranes, thereby creating pores that compromise membrane integrity and increase membrane permeability. It binds not only to ergosterol in fungal cell walls but also to cholesterol in human cell membranes; this is what accounts for its nephrotoxicity.

Can amphotericin B cause renal failure?

Tubular damage is a well known problem associated with amphotericin B therapy but acute renal failure is the most serious complication. Recent studies have examined ways to ameliorate the well-known toxicities of amphotericin B. A new approach has been to complex the drug with lipids or entrap it in liposomes.