Colistin generic name?

What is the generic name of colistin?

“Colistin” is itself the generic name (the non-brand name) for the antibiotic; it’s also commonly referred to by the generic terms “colistimethate” (prodrug) and “colistin” (active drug) in clinical contexts. [1][2]

Is “colistin” the same as “colistimethate”?

In practice, dosing and labeling often use “colistin” while the administered compound is usually the prodrug “colistimethate sodium,” which is converted into active colistin in the body. [1][2]

What names might appear on prescriptions or labels?

You may see different but related generic terms, such as:
- Colistin
- Colistimethate sodium
These refer to the antibiotic and its prodrug form used for therapy. [1][2]

Sources

1. https://www.who.int/medicines/publications/essentialmedicines/PLnames/en/
   
2. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Colistimethate-sodium