Voriconazole
Uses of Voriconazole
Voriconazole is commonly used to treat Fungal Infections and Severe Fungal Infections
How Voriconazole Works
Voriconazole is an antifungal agent which binds to CYP450-dependent 14-alpha sterol demethylase, leading to the inhibition of ergosterol synthesis and destroying the fungal cell membrane.
Side Effects of Voriconazole
Allergy reaction, Visual disturbances, Gut disturbances, Liver dysfunction, Tachycardia, Headache
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Oral preparations of Voriconazole are safe to use in patients with kidney impairment. However, intravenous preparations of Voriconazole has to be avoided and switch to oral preparation in patients with creatinine clearance less than 50ml/min.
Alcohol Safe
There is no known interaction between Voriconazole and alcohol. However, possibility of interactions cannot be excluded. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity but there are limited data of Voriconazole on pregnant women. Thus, it is not advisable during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Voriconazole may cause side effects such as brief visual disturbance or sensitive to bright light, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Limited Data
Dose adjustment of Voriconazole may be needed in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment. Caution use has to be exercised in patients with severe liver impairment as there are no studies of Voriconazole in this group of patients.
Lactation Limited Data
Excretion of Voriconazole into human milk has not been investigated. It is not advisable during breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
