Caspofungin inhibits the synthesis of beta-(1,3)-D-glucan, an essential component of the cell wall of Aspergillus species and Candida species.
Beta-(1,3)-D-glucan is not present in mammalian cells.
The primary target is beta-(1,3)-glucan synthase.
⚠️ Warnings
Pregnancy
Pregnancy:
Caspofungin should not be used during pregnancy unless strictly necessary.
Breast-feeding
Breast-feeding:
It is not known whether caspofungin is excreted in human milk. Available pharmacodynamic/toxicological data in animals have shown excretion of caspofungin in milk. Women receiving caspofungin should not breast-feed.
It is very important that your doctor monitors your progress or that of your child while taking caspofungin to ensure that the medicine is working correctly.
Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.
You should contact your doctor immediately if you or your child experience any symptoms of liver problems, including dark-coloured urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in the upper stomach, or yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes.
Caspofungin may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis can be fatal and requires immediate medical attention.
You should contact your doctor immediately if you or your child develop a skin rash, itching, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, or any swelling of the hands, face, or mouth after receiving caspofungin.
Do not take any other medicines that have not been discussed with your doctor.
This includes prescription and non-prescription (OTC) medicines, and herbal or vitamin supplements.
