| drug name | Voriconazole |
| classification | Azole antifungal |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Voriconazole is absorbed in the GI tract but bioavailability is highly variable and often less than 100%. Absorption is affected by food, so it should ideally be taken on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). | | distribution | Voriconazole is extensively distributed throughout the body, with high concentrations in tissues, including the lungs, kidneys, and liver. | | metabolism | Voriconazole is primarily metabolized in the liver via cytochrome P450 isoenzymes, particularly CYP2C19 and CYP3A4. This is crucial because interactions with other drugs affecting these enzymes are common. | | excretion | Voriconazole is excreted primarily in the bile, with a smaller portion excreted in the urine. The elimination half-life is variable but generally prolonged, leading to the potential for drug accumulation. |
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| suggested dosage | | note | Dosage depends on the specific indication and patient's condition. Always consult a physician. | | example dosage | The typical starting dose for non-severe infections is 6 mg/kg IV every 12 hours. |
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| indications | | 1 | Treatment of invasive aspergillosis | | 2 | Treatment of other fungal infections | | 3 | Prophylaxis of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients |
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| safety pregnancy | Voriconazole is a category C drug. There is potential for fetal harm. It should only be used in pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk. Close monitoring is crucial. |
| safety breastfeeding | Voriconazole is excreted in breast milk. A decision regarding breastfeeding should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, weighing the potential benefits of breastfeeding versus the potential risks to the infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Vomiting | | 3 | Diarrhea | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Rash | | 6 | Hepatotoxicity | | 7 | Photosensitivity | | 8 | Visual disturbances | | 9 | Changes in blood counts | | 10 | QT prolongation | | 11 | Peripheral neuropathy |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to voriconazole or related azoles | | 2 | Severe hepatic impairment | | 3 | Severe renal impairment |
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| interactions | Voriconazole is a potent inhibitor of CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP2C9, leading to significant drug interactions with many medications. Consult a pharmacist or physician for specific interaction information. Examples include medications affecting the liver metabolism. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Careful monitoring of liver function tests is essential, especially during the first few weeks of therapy. | | 2 | Close monitoring of QT interval is advised. | | 3 | Patients should be cautioned about possible photosensitivity and take precautions to avoid sunlight exposure during treatment. | | 4 | May cause visual disturbances. Consult ophthalmologist if needed. | | 5 | Potential for drug interactions with many medications. Always consult a physician for any concomitant medications. |
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| additional informations | Voriconazole is available in IV and oral forms. Adjustments to the dosage may be necessary based on the patient's renal and hepatic function. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions closely for administration. Use caution in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular issues. |
| patient information | | age | 25 | | weight | 70 | | units weight | kg |
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