For the treatment of esophageal candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis in patients who are refractory to or intolerant of other therapies.
Caspofungin inhibits the synthesis of b (1,3)-D-glucan, an essential component of the cell wall of <i>Aspergillus</i> species and <i>Candida</i> species. b (1,3)-D-glucan is not present in mammalian cells. The primary target is beta-(1,3)-glucan synthase.
Side effects include rash, swelling, and nausea (rare)
92% tissue distribution within 36-48 hours after intravenous infusion
9-11 hours
After single intravenous administration of [3H] caspofungin acetate, excretion of caspofungin and its metabolites in humans was 35% of dose in feces and 41% of dose in urine.
* 12 mL/min [After single IV administration]