Calcium-channel blocking agents as therapy for amphotericin B nephrotoxicity

Amphotericin B is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent shown to be effective in the treatment of systemic fungal infections. Unfortunately, therapeutic doses are often associated with a variety of adverse effects, including nephrotoxicity. Studies of the deleterious effects of amphotericin B on the renal microvasculature are yielding clues to sparing kidney function. In selected patients, concomitant use of a calcium-channel blocker may prevent the nephrotoxic effects of amphotericin B and allow full therapeutic doses to be used.