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Indian Journal of Pharmacology
Medknow Publications on behalf of Indian Pharmacological Society
ISSN: 0253-7613
EISSN: 0253-7613
Vol. 36, No. 2, 2004, pp. 65-71
Bioline Code: ph04027
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge

Indian Journal of Pharmacology, Vol. 36, No. 2, 2004, pp. 65-71

 en Echinocandins: A promising new antifungal group
Randhawa GK, Sharma G

Abstract

Echinocandins are a new option for fungal infections. They are fungicidal and less toxic to the host by virtue of their novel mechanism of action. They are β-1, 3-glucan synthase inhibitors. FDA, USA has approved caspofungin for treatment of invasive aspergillosis in patients who fail to respond or are unable to tolerate other antifungals. Two other agents are in phase III clinical trials - micafungin and anidulafungin. Caspofungin among echinocandins has been studied vastly and offers apparent exciting advantages of a broad spectrum of activity including strains of fungi resistant to other antifungal agents, tolerability profile, with no nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity as compared to azole and macrolide antifungals. It may be effective in AIDS-related candidal esophagitis, oropharyngeal candidiasis, fungal pneumonia and nonmeningeal coccidioidomycosis. Clinical trials are required to ascertain their safety in special groups-pediatric, pregnant and nursing mothers. Echinocandins provide an exciting option for combination therapy with other antifungals in fulminant fungal infections.

Keywords
Caspofungin, glucan synthase inhibitor, fungal infections.

 
© Copyright 2004 Indian Journal of Pharmacology.
Alternative site location: http://www.ijp-online.com

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