Journal Article > Research

Effectiveness and safety of liposomal amphotericin B for visceral leishmaniasis under routine program conditions in Bihar, India

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Abstract
We evaluated, through the prospective monitoring of 251 patients at Sadar Hospital in Bihar, India, the effectiveness and safety of 20 mg/kg body weight of liposomal amphotericin B for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis. The treatment success rates for the intention-to-treat, per protocol, and intention-to-treat worse-case scenario analyses were 98.8%, 99.6%, and 81.3%, respectively. Nearly one-half of patients experienced mild adverse events, but only 1% developed serious but non–life-threatening lips swelling. The lost to follow-up rate was 17.5%. Our findings indicate that the 20 mg/kg body weight treatment dosage is effective and safe under routine program conditions. Given that the exorbitant cost of liposomal amphotericin B is a barrier to its widespread use, we recommend further study to monitor and evaluate a lowered dosage and a shorter treatment course.
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Published Date
01-Aug-2010
PubMed ID
20682882
Languages
English
Volume / Issue / Pages
Volume 83, Issue 2, Pages 357-364
Issue Date
05-Aug-2010
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