| name | Posaconazole |
| classification | Azole antifungal |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Well absorbed orally; food may increase absorption. | | distribution | Distributed widely throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS). | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily by the liver; CYP3A4 is a major enzyme involved in its metabolism. | | excretion | Excreted primarily in the bile, with some renal excretion. |
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| suggested dosage | | adults | Oral dose typically ranges from 200-400 mg once daily, depending on the specific indication. Individualized dosing may be required. | | notes | Always follow the prescribed dosage and instructions from your doctor or pharmacist. |
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| indications | | 1 | Treatment and prevention of invasive aspergillosis and other fungal infections. | | 2 | Treatment of candidemia, cryptococcosis, and other fungal infections. |
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| safety in pregnancy | Category C. Potential risks to the fetus are possible. Use only if potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Consult with a physician. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data. Potential for excretion into breast milk. Use with caution or avoid during breastfeeding, depending on the clinical scenario. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Elevated liver enzymes | | 4 | Elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) | | 5 | Skin rash | | 6 | Hypokalemia (low potassium) | | 7 | QT prolongation (risk of cardiac arrhythmias). | | 8 | Fatigue | | 9 | Loss of appetite | | 10 | Drug interactions are common. Consult your physician for any other medications you are taking. |
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| alternative drugs | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to posaconazole or other azole antifungals | | 2 | Severe hepatic impairment |
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| interactions | | 1 | Significant drug interactions with many medications due to CYP3A4 inhibition or induction. It is critical to provide your doctor a complete list of medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements. Interactions may affect the efficacy or increase the toxicity of posaconazole and other medications. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) regularly. | | 2 | Monitor serum potassium levels, particularly in patients with risk factors for hypokalemia. | | 3 | Careful monitoring for QT prolongation, especially in patients with risk factors. | | 4 | Adjust dose in patients with renal impairment. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Posaconazole is often administered with other antifungal agents or in combination with other medical therapies to reduce the chance of resistance development | | 2 | Consult your physician about the appropriate duration of therapy based on clinical circumstances. | | 3 | Consider the patient's age, weight, and comorbidities when determining the appropriate dose and monitoring plan. |
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