Caspofungin: Pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical uses and treatment outcomes. (2nd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Song, Jessica C.; Stevens, David A.
• Is Part Of: Critical reviews in microbiology. Volume 42:Number 5(2016)
• Page Start: 813
• Page End: 846
• Publication Date: 2016-09-02
• Subjects: Antifungal -- caspofungin -- fungal cell wall -- glucan; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Review Literature -- Periodicals; 579
• DOI: 10.3109/1040841X.2015.1068271
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-841X

Abstract

Abstract: Over the past decade, echinocandins have emerged as first-line antifungal agents for many Candida infections. The echinocandins have a unique mechanism of action, inhibiting the synthesis of β-1, 3-d -glucan polymers, key components of the cell wall in pathogenic fungi. Caspofungin was the first echinocandin antifungal agent to become licensed for use. The objectives of this review are to summarize the existing published data on caspofungin, under the subject headings of chemistry and mechanism of action, spectrum of activity, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical studies, safety, drug interactions, dosing, and an overview of the drug's current place in therapy.