Colisol Solution

Indications

Colistin Sulphate is a polymyxin antibiotic. The oral solutions and powders containing it are mainly veterinary products used in poultry, calves, pigs and other farm animals to treat and control gut infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, under the direction of a veterinarian. These products are for animal use only and are not for human use.

How It Works

Colistin binds to the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and disrupts it, like a detergent, so the contents of the bacterial cell leak out and the bacteria die. Given by mouth it is very poorly absorbed, so it acts mainly inside the gut.

Dosage and Administration

Give in drinking water, milk or feed exactly as directed on the product label or by a veterinarian, according to the animal species, body weight and number of days stated. Prepare fresh medicated water each day and make sure it is the only drinking water during treatment. Observe the withdrawal period on the label: meat, eggs or milk from treated animals must not be used for human food until it has passed.

Interactions

Do not combine with other medicines or water additives unless the veterinarian advises it. Use with other drugs that can harm the kidneys or nerves (such as Aminoglycosides) increases toxicity risk. Hard water and some feed components may reduce effectiveness.

Contraindications

Do not use in animals known to be allergic to polymyxins, or with severe kidney problems. Do not use in horses, especially foals, unless the veterinarian specifically advises it. Not for human use.

Side Effects

At the labelled dose, side effects in animals are uncommon because little is absorbed. Very high doses or use in animals with gut damage may lead to kidney or nerve toxicity, weakness or loss of appetite. People handling the product may get skin irritation.

If treated animals become very weak, stop drinking, or deaths increase, stop treatment and contact a veterinarian urgently. If a person accidentally swallows the product or develops a skin or breathing allergy after handling it, seek medical help.

Pregnancy and Lactation

In breeding and laying animals, use only as directed on the label and by the veterinarian, and observe egg and milk withdrawal periods. Pregnant or breastfeeding people handling the product should wear gloves and avoid swallowing or inhaling it.

Precautions and Warnings

Use only when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, as colistin is a last-resort antibiotic in human medicine and overuse in animals spreads resistance. Do not use for growth promotion or routine prevention. Wear gloves, wash hands after handling, and keep away from food for people.

Overdose

Overdose in animals may cause kidney damage, nerve effects, muscle weakness and breathing problems. Stop treatment and contact a veterinarian. If a person swallows the product, seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Veterinary antibiotic (polymyxin).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep away from food and animal feed stores not intended for treatment.