Colistimethate Sodium

Pronounced

"koe-lis-ti-METH-ate"

Common brand names:

Coly-Mycin M

Uses

Colistimethate is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Other Uses

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved US professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

In people with cystic fibrosis, inhaled colistimethate may also be used for serious bacterial lung infections (Pseudomonas aeruginosa). See also Storage section for information about important safety concerns when this medication is inhaled.

How to Use This Medication

Colistimethate for injection is usually given into a vein or a muscle as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

If you are inhaling this medication, learn how to prepare the solution and use the nebulizer machine properly. See also the Storage section. If you have any questions, ask your health care professional.

For the best effect, use this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, use this medication at the same time(s) every day.

Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.

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