Amphotericin B is commonly associated with which adverse reactions?

• A. Nausea only
• B. Hypotension, fever, chills, and nephrotoxicity
• C. Rash
• D. Hair loss

Answer: (B)

Amphotericin B is known for two major toxicity patterns: infusion-related reactions and nephrotoxicity. The drug can trigger a cytokine release during infusion, leading to fever, chills (rigors), and sometimes low blood pressure. It also directly affects renal tubules, causing nephrotoxicity with electrolyte wasting (notably potassium and magnesium) and reduced kidney function. Because of these prominent risks, the best description of its common adverse reactions is a combination of hypotension, fever, chills, and nephrotoxicity. Rash or hair loss aren’t typical hallmark effects of amphotericin B, and nausea may occur but isn’t as characteristic as the infusion reactions plus kidney toxicity.