Indications
Rezafungin is an antifungal medicine used in hospital to treat serious Candida yeast infections of the blood (candidaemia) and of deep body tissues (invasive candidiasis) in adults, usually when other treatment options are limited.
How It Works
Rezafungin belongs to the echinocandin group. It blocks an enzyme the fungus needs to build its cell wall (beta-glucan synthase). Without a strong wall the yeast cells break down and die. It stays in the body a long time, which allows dosing once a week.
Dosage and Administration
Rezafungin is given as a slow drip into a vein (infusion) by a doctor or nurse in hospital, usually once a week. The dose and length of treatment are as prescribed and depend on the infection and the response.
Interactions
- Few important drug interactions are known, but the doctor should be told about all other medicines.
- Care is needed with other medicines that can affect the liver or lower potassium levels.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Rezafungin or to other echinocandins (such as Caspofungin, Micafungin or Anidulafungin).
Side Effects
Possible effects include low potassium or magnesium in the blood, fever, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, anaemia and raised liver test results. Some people have flushing, itching or a feeling of warmth during the infusion. Skin may be more sensitive to sunlight.
Get urgent medical help (or tell the nurse at once) if there is swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, severe rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe weakness or palpitations.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Animal studies suggest a possible risk to the unborn baby, so it is used in pregnancy only if the doctor judges it essential. Women who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; discuss breastfeeding with the doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
- Infusion reactions can occur; the infusion is given slowly and the patient is watched.
- Liver tests and blood salts are checked during treatment.
- Protect the skin from strong sunlight during and shortly after treatment.
Overdose
As it is given in hospital, overdose is unlikely. If it happens, the patient is monitored and given supportive care.
Therapeutic Class
Antifungal, echinocandin.
Storage
Hospital medicine: store as directed on the pack. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.