Update on new antifungal therapy

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

AACN Advanced Critical Care

Abstract

Increases in rates as well as morbidity and mortality associated with fungal infections have necessitated the need for additional antifungal agents. Recent research has resulted in the introduction of 3 new antifungal agents: micafungin, anidulafungin, and posaconazole. Micafungin and anidulafungin, both potent inhibitor of 1,3-β-D-glucan synthase, are the second and third available agents in the echinocandins class that are available in clinical practice. Posaconazale, a potent inhibitor of ergosterol synthesis, is a new agent in the triazole class that has shown promising clinical efficacy in the treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections due to Candida as well as molds. This article reviews the clinical efficacy as well as the approved uses and dosages associated with the use of these new antifungal agents. Other considerations, such as precautions, administration techniques, potential drug interactions, and common adverse effects associated with the use of these agents, are also reviewed. © 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

First Page

253

Last Page

260

DOI

10.1097/01.AACN.0000284425.71083.30

Publication Date

7-1-2007

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