Caspofungin

What it is used for

Caspofungin acetate for injection is an echinocandin antifungal indicated in adults and pediatric patients (3 months of age and older) for: Empirical therapy for presumed fungal infections in febrile, neutropenic patients. Treatment of candidemia and the following Candida infections: intra-abdominal abscesses, peritonitis and pleural space infections.

Treatment of esophageal candidiasis. Treatment of invasive aspergillosis in patients who are refractory to or intolerant of other therapies. Empirical Therapy for Presumed Fungal Infections in Febrile, Neutropenic Patients Caspofungin acetate for injection is indicated as empirical therapy for presumed fungal infections in febrile, neutropenic adult and pediatric patients (3 months of age and older).

Treatment of Candidemia and Other Candida Infections Caspofungin acetate for injection is indicated for the treatment of candidemia and the following candida infections: intra-abdominal abscesses, peritonitis, and pleural space infections in adult and pediatric patients (3 months of age and older). Limitations of Use: Caspofungin acetate for injection has not been studied in endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and meningitis due to Candida.

Treatment of Esophageal Candidiasis Caspofungin acetate for injection is indicated for the treatment of esophageal candidiasis in adult and pediatric patients (3 months of age and older). Limitations of Use: Caspofungin acetate for injection has not been approved for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). In the study that evaluated the efficacy of caspofungin in the treatment of esophageal candidiasis, patients with concomitant OPC had higher relapse rate of the OPC.

Treatment of Invasive Aspergillosis in Patients Who Are Refractory to or Intolerant of Other Therapies Caspofungin acetate for injection is indicated for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis in adult and pediatric patients (3 months of age and older) who are refractory to or intolerant of other therapies. Limitations of Use: Caspofungin acetate for injection has not been studied as initial therapy for invasive aspergillosis.

Side effects, and when to stop

The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in detail in another section of the labeling:

• Hypersensitivity
• Hepatic Effects
• Elevated Liver Enzymes During Concomitant Use with Cyclosporine

Who should not take it

Caspofungin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of this product.

Storing it

Storage Conditions Store refrigerated between 2° and 8°C (36° and 46°F). Discard unused portion.

Sterile, Nonpyrogenic, Lyophilized. The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.

There are no preservatives or bacteriostatic agents in this product.