Colistin Injection: A Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Decreased urine output or no urine output
- Swelling of face, hands, or feet
- Tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Severe dizziness or seizures
- Rash, itching, or swelling of lips or throat
- Severe or bloody diarrhea
- Persistent vomiting or inability to eat
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is colicraft 1million iu injection used for?
Colistin injection is a last-resort antibiotic used to treat serious infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. It works by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane, leading to bacterial death. It is given intravenously in a hospital setting and requires close monitoring of kidney function.
- Generic Name: Colistimethate Sodium
- Manufacturer: United Biotech Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 colicraft 1million iu injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा कोलिस्टिन इंजेक्शन के रूप में दी जाती है और यह गंभीर संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए उपयोग की जाती है जो मल्टीड्रग-रेसिस्टेंट ग्राम-नेगेटिव बैक्टीरिया के कारण होते हैं। यह अस्पताल में डॉक्टर की देखरेख में इंट्रावेनस रूप से दी जाती है। यह निमोनिया, रक्त संक्रमण, मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण और पेट के संक्रमण के इलाज में प्रभावी है। यह दवा केवल उन्हीं रोगियों के लिए है जिनके संक्रमण अन्य एंटीबायोटिक्स से ठीक नहीं हो रहे हैं।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में गुर्दे की समस्या (नेफ्रोटॉक्सिसिटी), तंत्रिका समस्या (न्यूरोटॉक्सिसिटी), मतली, उल्टी, दस्त और इंजेक्शन स्थल पर दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में तीव्र गुर्दे की चोट, सांस की मांसपेशियों का पक्षाघात और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं शामिल हैं। यदि आपको पेशाब कम आना, सूजन, झुनझुनी, कमजोरी या सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल अस्पताल में डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं न लगाएं। अपने डॉक्टर को गुर्दे की बीमारी, तंत्रिका विकार या मायस्थेनिया ग्रेविस के बारे में बताएं। इलाज के दौरान गुर्दे की कार्यप्रणाली की निगरानी की जाएगी। अन्य दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को बताएं। शराब न पिएं। बेहतर महसूस होने पर भी दवा बंद न करें।
💊 colicraft 1million iu injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections","description":"Used to treat serious infections caused by multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae when other antibiotics are ineffective.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia","description":"Effective against Gram-negative bacteria causing these severe lung infections, often as part of combination therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bloodstream infections","description":"Used for bacteremia caused by susceptible multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Complicated urinary tract infections","description":"May be used for complicated UTIs caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Intra-abdominal infections","description":"Used in combination with other antibiotics for complicated intra-abdominal infections caused by resistant Gram-negative bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Inhalation for respiratory infections","description":"Sometimes given by nebulization for treating or preventing respiratory infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Intrathecal or intraventricular administration for central nervous system infections","description":"Occasionally used via intrathecal or intraventricular route for meningitis or ventriculitis caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria when intravenous therapy alone is insufficient.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections
Also treats: Hospital-acquired pneumonia, Ventilator-associated pneumonia, Bloodstream infections, Complicated urinary tract infections, Intra-abdominal infections
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Colistimethate Sodium |
| Brand Name | Acostin 1 Million IU Injection |
| Manufacturer | United Biotech Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | GASTRO INTESTINAL |
| Action Class | Cell membrane active agent |
| Route of Administration | Intravenous (IV) injection or infusion. It may also be administered by inhalation or intrathecal routes in specific cases, but the intravenous route is the most common |
| Storage | Store the unreconstituted vial at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from light. After reconstitution, the solution should be stored at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) and used within 24 hours. Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of the unreconstituted product is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the vial. After reconstitution, use within 24 hours if refrigerated. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization (WHO) includes colistin in its list of essential medicines for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. It is recommended as a last-resort antibiotic for infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommends colistin as a reserve antibiotic for the treatment of infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, including carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. It should be used judiciously and in combination with other antibiotics when appropriate. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine contains colistimethate sodium, which is a prodrug that is hydrolyzed in the body to colistin, the active antibiotic. Colistin is a polymyxin antibiotic that binds to the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. This binding displaces calcium and magnesium ions, destabilizing the membrane and increasing its permeability. As a result, the bacterial cell contents leak out, leading to bacterial cell death. This medicine is bactericidal against susceptible Gram-negative bacteria, including many multidrug-resistant strains.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take colicraft 1million iu injection
Strength: Powder for injection: 1 million IU of colistimethate sodium per vial.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal function, and severity of infection. For adults with normal kidney function, a common dose is 2.5 to 5 mg/kg of colistin base activity per day, divided into 2 to 4 doses, given intravenously. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 5 mg/kg/day of colistin base activity. For infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, a loading dose may be given. Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients are at increased risk of nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Dose should be adjusted based on renal function. Monitor kidney function closely. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment. The dose and dosing interval should be adjusted based on creatinine clearance. For patients with creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min, the dose should be reduced and/or the dosing interval extended. Consult a healthcare professional for specific dosing recommendations. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is recommended for hepatic impairment. However, monitor liver function in patients with pre-existing liver disease. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose should not exceed 5 mg/kg/day of colistin base activity. Doses above this may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of colicraft 1million iu injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Aminoglycosides | Major | |
| Neuromuscular blockers | Major | |
| Amphotericin B | Major | |
| Cyclosporine | Major | |
| Cephalothin | Major | |
| Loop diuretics | Moderate | |
| NSAIDs | Moderate | |
| Contrast media | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Minor | |
| Corticosteroids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, amikacin)
- Neuromuscular blockers (e.g., vecuronium, succinylcholine)
- Amphotericin B
- Cyclosporine
- Cephalothin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Contrast media
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of kidney and nerve toxicity. Avoid alcohol while receiving this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to colistimethate sodium or any component of the formulation.","Concurrent use with neuromuscular blocking agents is contraindicated due to risk of respiratory paralysis.","Not for intrathecal use unless specifically prepared and indicated.","Not for ophthalmic or topical use unless specifically formulated."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Nephrotoxicity: Monitor kidney function closely. Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment.","Neurotoxicity: May cause tingling, numbness, dizziness, or muscle weakness. Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis.","Respiratory paralysis: Risk increased with concurrent neuromuscular blockers. Avoid concomitant use.","Superinfection: Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.","Pregnancy and lactation: Use only if clearly needed. Consult your doctor.","Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years. Consult a pediatrician.","Elderly use: Use with caution due to increased risk of kidney toxicity. Monitor renal function.","Injection site reactions: May cause pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether colistimethate sodium is excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when this medicine is administered to a nursing woman. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause severe nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity, including respiratory paralysis. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis may be considered to remove colistin from the blood in severe cases. Monitor kidney function, respiratory status, and neurological status closely. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately if overdose is suspected.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. If you miss a dose, inform your nurse or doctor immediately. Do not attempt to self-administer a double dose. The dosing schedule will be adjusted by your healthcare provider.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given only by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Do not attempt to self-administer. Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, nerve disorders, or myasthenia gravis, as this medicine may worsen these conditions. Your kidney function and nerve function will be monitored during treatment. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially other antibiotics, pain relievers, or muscle relaxants. Avoid alcohol while receiving this medicine, as it may increase the risk of side effects. If you experience decreased urination, swelling, tingling, or weakness, report it to your doctor immediately. Do not stop treatment without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better, to prevent resistance and recurrence.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are at increased risk of kidney and nerve toxicity. Dose adjustment based on renal function is essential. Monitor kidney function closely. Falls risk may be increased if dizziness or weakness occurs.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before starting this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine may be used to treat surgical site infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Monitor kidney function closely after surgery, especially if you have other risk factors for kidney problems.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are receiving this medicine. No specific precautions are required for dental procedures, but maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise while receiving this medicine, especially if you have kidney or nerve problems. Light activity may be allowed as tolerated. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is given in a hospital setting, so you will likely need to stay in the hospital during treatment. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery while receiving this medicine, especially if you experience dizziness or weakness. Plan for time off work and arrange for help at home if needed.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping early may lead to incomplete treatment, recurrence of infection, and antibiotic resistance. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your clinical response and test results.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of kidney damage and nerve damage. Kidney function should be monitored regularly. If you experience any signs of nephrotoxicity or neurotoxicity, your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to another antibiotic. Prolonged use may also lead to superinfection with resistant organisms. Regular follow-up is essential.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Another polymyxin antibiotic that may be used for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections.
Evidence: Well-establishedA glycylcycline antibiotic used for multidrug-resistant infections, but with different spectrum and side effects.
Evidence: Well-establishedUsing colistin with other antibiotics may improve efficacy and reduce resistance.
Evidence: Emerging💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, patients with severe infections may have a reduced immune response to vaccines. Consult your doctor about vaccination timing.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store the unreconstituted vial at room temperature (20-25°C).
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze the unreconstituted vial.
✅ DO
Refrigerate the reconstituted solution at 2-8°C and use within 24 hours.
❌ DON'T
Do not use the reconstituted solution after 24 hours.
✅ DO
Protect the vial from light.
❌ DON'T
Do not store in direct sunlight.
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children.
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers.
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given in a hospital setting, so travel is not applicable. If you are discharged and need to continue treatment, your healthcare provider will arrange for administration at a local clinic or hospital. Carry your prescription and medical records. Store the reconstituted solution refrigerated (2°C to 8°C) and use within 24 hours. Do not freeze. Inform your doctor if you are traveling to a different time zone, as dosing schedules may need adjustment.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: You may start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours, but the full course must be completed as prescribed.
A: No, this medicine is given intravenously in a hospital or clinic setting under medical supervision.
A: Kidney problems and nerve problems are the most common serious side effects. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur.
A: It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor.
A: No, you must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent resistance and recurrence.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for colicraft 1million iu injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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coly-suz 1miu injectionSuzan Pharma ₹649.00 9.2% COSTLIER
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Tinmax 1Million IU InjectionLemford Biotech Pvt Ltd ₹700.00 17.8% COSTLIER
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zolistin 1miu injectionLG Lifesciences ₹712.50 19.9% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Colistin injection is a first-line antibiotic for all infections.
Fact: Colistin is a last-resort antibiotic reserved for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections when other options are ineffective. - Myth: Colistin injection can be taken orally.
Fact: Colistin injection is given intravenously. Oral colistin is not absorbed and is used only for gut infections. - Myth: Colistin injection is safe for everyone.
Fact: Colistin can cause serious kidney and nerve damage. It is used only when the benefits outweigh the risks. - Myth: You can stop colistin injection when you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to prevent resistance and recurrence.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Colistimethate sodium
Brand Alternatives
- Colistin Injection