Echinocandins in invasive candidiasis

Mycoses. 2013 Nov;56(6):601-9. doi: 10.1111/myc.12085. Epub 2013 May 7.

Abstract

We summarise a recent meeting, sponsored by Pfizer Inc., where experts in Asia shared their clinical experience in managing IC. The echinocandins have demonstrated good activity against non-albicans infections and also azole-resistant strains, both preclinically and in recent clinical trials. As well as proving efficacious, echinocandins have a favourable safety profile and are well tolerated, including among inpatient subpopulations, such as transplant recipients and those with renal or hepatic dysfunction. In addition the echinocandins generally have minimal drug-drug interactions, unlike the oral azoles, which have multiple effects on cytochrome P450-mediated drug metabolism. Echinocandins are characterised by a good safety profile, few drug-drug interactions and good susceptibilities. With the increase in potentially azole-resistant non-albicans infections, echinocandins may become the first-line treatment of choice for many patients.

Keywords: Echinocandins; candidaemia; critically ill.

Publication types

  • Congress

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / adverse effects
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Candidiasis, Invasive / drug therapy*
  • Echinocandins / adverse effects
  • Echinocandins / therapeutic use*
  • Global Health
  • Humans

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Echinocandins