MICAFUNGIN

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mycamine

GENERIC NAME(S): MICAFUNGIN SODIUM

 

Description: Micafungin is an echinocandin antifungal. It works by inhibiting 1,3-β-D-glucan synthase resulting in reduced formation of 1,3-β-D-glucan which is an essential polysaccharide comprising 30-60% of Candida cell walls; decreased glucan content results in osmotic instability and thus cellular lysis.

Pharmacokinetics:

Absorption: Absorbed from the GI tract after oral admin.

Distribution: >99% bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin.

Metabolism: Metabolised by arylsulfatase to its catechol form; further metabolised by catechol-O-methyltransferase to the methoxy form.

Excretion: Mean half-life: About 14-17.2 hr. Excreted mainly in the faeces.

This medication is used to treat a variety of fungal infections (such as candidemia, esophageal candidiasis). It is also used to prevent fungal infections if you are having a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, since people with weak immune systems have a higher risk of fungal infections.

Micafungin belongs to a class of drugs known as echinocandins. It works by stopping the growth of fungus.

How to use micafungin intravenous

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is usually given once a day. It should be injected slowly over 1 hour. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight.

If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional.

Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

This medication is given by injection into a vein, as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. Rash, itchy skin, swelling of the face, dizziness, and low blood pressure may occur if this medication is given too quickly. Therefore, it is important to inject this medication slowly over 1 hour. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Do not mix or inject micafungin with other medications.

Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Continue using this medication for the full time prescribed. Stopping this medication too soon may allow fungus to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of your infection.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

See also How To Use section.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, trouble sleeping, or irritation at the site of injection may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat, pain during urination), chills, fever, dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing of eyes/skin, easy bleeding/bruising, unusual fatigue, fast/pounding heartbeat, change in the amount of urine.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but get medical help right away if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:

Before using micafungin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, blood disorders (e.g., anemia, decreased bone marrow function).

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

 

Interactions:

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: itraconazole, nifedipine.

Overdose:

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., liver, kidney and blood tests such as CBC, electrolytes) may be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed Dose

For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Consult the product instructions and your pharmacist for storage details. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

 

Brands:

Available Brands:

Mycamine [ Astellas ]

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