What does it do?

Colistimethate is used to treat bacterial infections in your lungs.

How should you use it?

Inhale colistimethate as directed, using your nebuliser.
Mix colistimethate with 0.9% sodium chloride (saline) immediately before use. Any unused solution should be discarded – do not store for future use.

What if you forget a dose?

Inhale the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Increased trouble breathing	Tell your doctor immediately
Tingling or numbness, weakness Dizziness Voice changes, cough	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems or a chronic muscle condition (e.g. myasthenia gravis).
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Colistimethate may cause dizziness and make it dangerous to drive, operate machinery or do other activities that require you to be alert.
• Inhaled colistimethate can sometimes make breathing worse. If this occurs, your doctor may give you a ‘reliever’ medicine (e.g. salbutamol, ipratropium) to use immediately before colistimethate.
• Do not save partly used colistimethate vials - use once and then discard.