From the FDA Drug Label
Storage Prior to reconstitution Amphotericin B for Injection USP should be stored under refrigeration, 2˚ to 8˚C (36˚to 46˚F), protected against exposure to light Solutions prepared for intravenous infusion (0. 1 mg or less amphotericin B per mL) should be used promptly after preparation and should be protected from light during administration.
Yes, Amphotericin B reacts to light, as it needs to be protected against exposure to light during storage and administration 1.
From the Research
Amphotericin B is sensitive to light and should be protected from light during storage and administration. The light sensitivity of Amphotericin B is due to its chemical structure, which contains conjugated double bonds that can undergo photodegradation when exposed to light, particularly ultraviolet light, as supported by a study published in the Journal of pharmaceutical sciences 2. This degradation can reduce the medication's effectiveness and potentially lead to the formation of breakdown products.
Key Points to Consider
- Amphotericin B formulations are typically packaged in amber or opaque containers to minimize light exposure.
- During preparation and administration, healthcare providers should minimize the medication's exposure to light.
- Once reconstituted or diluted, the solution should be used promptly according to the specific formulation's guidelines.
- If storage is necessary, the prepared solution should be kept in a light-protected environment.
- This light sensitivity applies to all formulations of Amphotericin B, including conventional deoxycholate and lipid-based formulations.
Evidence Supporting Light Sensitivity
A study published in 2021 in the Journal of pharmaceutical sciences 2 investigated the degradation pathway of Amphotericin B in lipid-based solutions and found that light exposure contributed to the degradation of the medication. Although other studies, such as those published in JAMA ophthalmology 3, Cornea 4, The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy 5, and The Cochrane database of systematic reviews 6, provide valuable information on the efficacy and safety of Amphotericin B, the most recent and highest quality study relevant to the question of light sensitivity is the one published in the Journal of pharmaceutical sciences 2.
Clinical Implications
Given the potential for photodegradation and the importance of maintaining the efficacy of Amphotericin B, it is crucial to follow guidelines that minimize light exposure during the handling and administration of this medication. By protecting Amphotericin B from light, healthcare providers can help ensure the medication remains effective against fungal infections, thereby improving patient outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.