cricolist 3miu injection - Colistimethate Sodium (3Million cells) medicine

Cricolist 3miu Injection: A Comprehensive Guide

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🏭 Concord Biotech Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
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 in legs, ankles, or feet
  • Severe muscle weakness or difficulty breathing
  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
  • Seizures or confusion
  • Rash, itching, or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Severe pain or redness at injection site

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is cricolist 3miu injection used for?

This medicine is a last-resort intravenous antibiotic used to treat serious infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. It works by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane. It is given only in hospital settings under close supervision.

  • Generic Name: Colistimethate Sodium
  • Manufacturer: Concord Biotech Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 cricolist 3miu injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक शक्तिशाली एंटीबायोटिक है जिसका उपयोग अस्पताल में गंभीर संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है, जो बहु-औषधि-प्रतिरोधी ग्राम-नकारात्मक बैक्टीरिया के कारण होते हैं। यह केवल इंजेक्शन के रूप में दी जाती है और डॉक्टर की देखरेख में ही दी जानी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में गुर्दे की समस्या, हाथ-पैरों में झुनझुनी या सुन्नपन, चक्कर आना और इंजेक्शन की जगह पर दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गुर्दे की विफलता, मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी और सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो सकती है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल अस्पताल में डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं न लें। अपने डॉक्टर को अन्य सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं। गुर्दे की कार्यप्रणाली की नियमित जांच कराएं। पेशाब कम आना, सूजन, या मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 cricolist 3miu injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections","description":"Used to treat serious infections caused by bacteria resistant to other antibiotics, such as carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Klebsiella species.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia","description":"Effective against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria causing lung infections in hospitalized patients.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Complicated urinary tract infections","description":"Used when infections are caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and other options are limited.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bloodstream infections (bacteremia)","description":"Administered intravenously to treat serious bloodstream infections caused by 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 organisms.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Intraventricular or intrathecal administration for central nervous system infections","description":"Sometimes given directly into the cerebrospinal fluid for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative meningitis or ventriculitis when intravenous therapy alone is insufficient.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Aerosolized colistimethate for respiratory infections","description":"Inhaled form may be used as an adjunct for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pneumonia, though this is not the intravenous formulation.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections

Also treats: Hospital-acquired pneumonia, Ventilator-associated pneumonia, Complicated urinary tract infections, Bloodstream infections, Intra-abdominal infections

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Colistimethate Sodium
Brand NameAcostin 1 Million IU Injection
ManufacturerConcord Biotech Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGASTRO INTESTINAL
Action ClassCell membrane active agent
Route of AdministrationIntravenous (IV) infusion over 30-60 minutes. Must be administered by a healthcare professional
StorageStore unopened vials at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect from light. After reconstitution, use immediately or store as directed by the manufacturer. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineWHO recommends colistin as a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. It is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines.
ICMR GuidelineICMR guidelines recommend colistin for treating infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, with close monitoring of renal function.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always administer this medicine via intravenous infusion over 30-60 minutes to reduce injection site reactions.
2
Monitor serum creatinine and urine output daily to detect early signs of nephrotoxicity.
3
Adjust the dose in renal impairment based on creatinine clearance to avoid toxicity.
4
Avoid concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides or amphotericin B.
5
Educate patients to report any tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness immediately.
6
Ensure adequate hydration unless contraindicated to help maintain renal perfusion.
7
Use the reconstituted solution immediately; do not store for extended periods.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Fever with multidrug-resistant infection
This medicine is used for serious infections caused by resistant bacteria.
Likely Use
❌
Common cold
This medicine is not effective against viral infections.
Not Primary
❌
Skin infection
This medicine is not typically used for skin infections unless caused by resistant Gram-negative bacteria.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNot applicable for intravenous administration; colistimethate sodium is not absorbed orally and must be given parenterally.
DistributionColistin distributes into various body tissues, including liver, kidney, muscle, and lung. It does not penetrate well into cerebrospinal fluid, bone, or aqueous humor. Protein binding is moderate.
Protein BindingApproximately 50% protein bound in plasma.
MetabolismColistimethate sodium is converted to colistin by hydrolysis in plasma and tissues. Colistin itself is not significantly metabolized.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of colistin is approximately 2 to 3 hours in patients with normal renal function, but it is prolonged in renal impairment.
ExcretionColistin and its metabolites are primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys via glomerular filtration. Renal impairment significantly reduces clearance.
BioavailabilityNot applicable for intravenous route; systemic bioavailability is 100% when administered intravenously.
Onset of ActionRapid bactericidal effect begins within hours after intravenous administration.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of colistin are reached at the end of intravenous infusion.
Duration of ActionThe antibacterial effect persists for approximately 12 hours after a dose, but dosing intervals are typically every 8 to 12 hours.

How It Works

Colistimethate sodium is an inactive prodrug that is hydrolyzed in the body to colistin, which is a polycationic polypeptide antibiotic. Colistin binds to the lipid A portion of lipopolysaccharides on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. This binding displaces calcium and magnesium ions, destabilizing the membrane and increasing its permeability. The disruption leads to leakage of intracellular contents and rapid bacterial cell death. Colistin is bactericidal against many Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains.

Mechanism Steps

1
Prodrug conversion: Colistimethate sodium is hydrolyzed in plasma and tissues to release the active colistin.
2
Binding to LPS: Colistin binds to the lipid A portion of lipopolysaccharides on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
3
Membrane destabilization: Binding displaces calcium and magnesium ions, disrupting the outer membrane integrity.
4
Cell death: Increased permeability leads to leakage of essential intracellular components and bacterial lysis.

💡 How to Take cricolist 3miu injection

Strength: Injection: 3 million cell units (approximately 100 mg colistimethate sodium) per vial.

1This medicine is given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion.
2The infusion is typically administered over 30 to 60 minutes.
3Do not self-administer; it must be given in a hospital or clinic setting.
4Your kidney function will be monitored regularly during treatment.
5Report any side effects immediately to your healthcare provider.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the type and severity of infection, patient weight, and renal function. A typical adult dose is 2.5 to 5 mg/kg of colistin base activity per day, divided into 2 to 4 doses, but the exact regimen must be determined by the treating physician. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may have reduced renal function and require dose adjustment. Monitor renal function closely.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment. The dose should be reduced based on creatinine clearance. Consult a clinician for specific dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is recommended for hepatic impairment, but monitor liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed the recommended dose determined by a qualified clinician based on renal function. Typically, the maximum daily dose is 5 mg/kg of colistin base activity.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 If you miss a dose while in hospital
→ Inform your nurse or doctor immediately.
💡 They will adjust your schedule accordingly.
📌 If you are self-administering at home (not recommended)
→ Contact your healthcare provider for instructions.
💡 Do not double dose.

⚠️ Side Effects of cricolist 3miu injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Nephrotoxicity (kidney injury) (Common (up to 20-30%))
Regular monitoring of kidney function is required. Report decreased urine output or swelling.
Neurotoxicity (tingling, numbness) (Common (up to 10-20%))
Report any tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness to your doctor.
Injection site reactions (Common)
Apply cold compress if needed. Report severe pain or redness.
Dizziness (Uncommon)
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Acute kidney injury (Uncommon (5-10%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue.
Severe neurotoxicity (muscle weakness, respiratory paralysis) (Rare (<1%))
Seek emergency care if you experience difficulty breathing, severe muscle weakness, or seizures.
Anaphylaxis (Rare (<0.1%))
Get emergency help immediately if you have rash, swelling of face/throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek immediate medical attention.
Respiratory paralysis
Emergency medical care required.
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
Report excessive thirst and urination to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Aminoglycosides Major
Amphotericin B Major
Vancomycin Major
NSAIDs Major
Loop diuretics Major
Neuromuscular blockers Major
Cephalosporins Moderate
Cyclosporine Moderate
Anticholinergics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, vancomycin, NSAIDs)
  • Neuromuscular blocking agents (e.g., vecuronium, succinylcholine)
  • Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Cephalosporins
  • Cyclosporine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of kidney and liver toxicity. Avoid alcohol while receiving this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to colistimethate sodium or polymyxins","Severe renal impairment without dose adjustment","Concurrent use with other nephrotoxic drugs (relative contraindication)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Nephrotoxicity: Monitor renal function closely. Dose adjust in renal impairment.","Neurotoxicity: May cause tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or seizures. Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis.","Respiratory paralysis: Rare but can occur, especially with neuromuscular blockers.","Superinfection: Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms.","Pregnancy and lactation: Use only if clearly needed.","Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Colistimethate sodium is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis may be considered to remove colistin in severe cases. Monitor renal and neurological function closely.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not double dose. Your healthcare provider will determine the best course of action based on your dosing schedule.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

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 about all other medicines you are taking, especially other antibiotics, pain relievers, or diuretics, as they may increase the risk of kidney damage. Your kidney function will be checked regularly through blood tests. Stay well hydrated unless your doctor advises otherwise. Report any new symptoms such as tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or decreased urination immediately. Do not stop treatment early even if you feel better, as this can lead to resistant infections.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of kidney damage. Dose adjustment based on renal function is crucial. Monitor closely for neurotoxicity.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used to treat surgical site infections caused by resistant bacteria. Monitor renal function closely after surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are on this medicine. No specific precautions, but maintain good oral hygiene.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help protect your kidneys.
🥗
Avoid alcohol during treatment.
😴
Eat a balanced diet to support recovery.
💧
Get plenty of rest.
🧘
Report any new symptoms to your doctor promptly.
🌞
Follow up regularly for kidney function tests.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise during treatment, especially if you experience dizziness or muscle weakness. Light activity may be okay if you feel well, but consult your doctor first.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink plenty of water unless advised otherwise.
Include fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Limit processed foods and excess salt.
Ensure adequate protein intake for healing.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is given in a hospital, so you will need to take time off work. After discharge, you may feel tired for a few days. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy or weak.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without your doctor's advice. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure and resistance. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your response and test results.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use may increase the risk of kidney damage and nerve problems. Regular monitoring of renal function and neurological status is essential. The duration of treatment is usually limited to 7-14 days, but may be longer for severe infections. Prolonged use can lead to bacterial resistance.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Other antibiotics

Depending on susceptibility, other antibiotics like polymyxin B, tigecycline, or ceftazidime-avibactam may be used.

Evidence: Well-established
Combination therapy

Combining this medicine with other antibiotics may improve efficacy and reduce resistance.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations as advised by your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze

✅ DO

Protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not use if solution is discolored or contains particles

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ 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, ensure you have a copy of your prescription and discharge summary. Carry medicines in original packaging with clear labels. Check with your airline about carrying injectable medicines. Store vials at room temperature and protect from light. Inform security about your medication.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 65-year-old man with hospital-acquired pneumonia caused by multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter
He was started on this medicine after other antibiotics failed. His kidney function was monitored closely, and the dose was adjusted. After 10 days, his infection improved, and he was discharged. He reported mild tingling in his fingers, which resolved after treatment ended.
💡 Lesson: Close monitoring of kidney function and neurological symptoms is crucial for safe use of this medicine.
👤 A 45-year-old woman with a complicated urinary tract infection caused by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella
She received this medicine intravenously for 14 days. Her symptoms improved within a week. She experienced a mild increase in serum creatinine, which returned to normal after dose adjustment and hydration.
💡 Lesson: Dose adjustment based on renal function and adequate hydration can prevent serious kidney damage.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within hours, but clinical improvement may take a few days. Your doctor will monitor your response.

Q: Can I go home while on this medicine?

A: This medicine is usually given in a hospital setting. In some cases, outpatient infusion may be possible under close supervision.

Q: What should I avoid while on this medicine?

A: Avoid alcohol and other nephrotoxic drugs. Stay hydrated and report any side effects immediately.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can this medicine affect my kidneys?
  • How long will I need this injection?
  • Will I need blood tests during treatment?
  • Can I take other medicines while on this?
  • What if I feel dizzy after the injection?
  • Is this medicine safe in pregnancy?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be taken orally.
    Fact: This medicine is an injection and must be given intravenously. It is not effective orally.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for all infections.
    Fact: It is reserved for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections and is not effective against viruses or Gram-positive bacteria.
  • Myth: This medicine has no side effects.
    Fact: It can cause kidney damage and nerve problems, requiring close monitoring.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Colistimethate sodium injection

Brand Alternatives

  • Colistin 3miu injection
  • Colistimethate 3miu injection

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Colistimethate sodium","class":"Polymyxin antibiotic","route":"Intravenous","main_use":"Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections","nephrotoxicity":"High"},{"medicine":"Polymyxin B","class":"Polymyxin antibiotic","route":"Intravenous","main_use":"Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections","nephrotoxicity":"High"},{"medicine":"Tigecycline","class":"Glycylcycline antibiotic","route":"Intravenous","main_use":"Multidrug-resistant infections","nephrotoxicity":"Low"}]

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