Colistin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Colistin is a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug-resistant infections. It belongs to the Hospital / strong antibiotic (injectable) group. These powerful antibiotics are used in hospital for serious or resistant infections.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Hospital / strong antibiotic (injectable)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Last-resort treatment for multidrug-resistant gram-negative infections
Used for resistant pneumonia, bloodstream and urinary infections in hospital
Inhaled form is used for chest infections in some lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis

Common brand names

India: Walcolis, Xylistin
Worldwide: Coly-Mycin

Common side effects

Reduced kidney function
Tingling around the mouth or in the limbs
Dizziness
Cough or chest tightness with the inhaled form

Before taking it — precautions

Kidney function is closely monitored during treatment
Tell your doctor about kidney disease or myasthenia gravis
Tell your doctor about other medicines that affect the kidneys or muscles

When to see a doctor urgently

Much less urine (urgent)
Muscle weakness or difficulty breathing (urgent)
Severe numbness, confusion or allergic reaction

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of colistin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why is colistin called a last-resort antibiotic?

It is kept for infections that resist other antibiotics because of its side effects and to protect it from resistance.

What are the main risks?

The main concerns are kidney damage and nerve effects, so patients are closely monitored.

Is it given at home?

Injected colistin is used in hospital; the inhaled form may be used at home under specialist care.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.