Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for Saskatchewan Health Authority - Saskatoon Area

Caspofungin

Restricted
Restricted

C. diff Risk

Low

Oral Bioavailability

NA

Spectrum Of Activity

General Spectrum of Activity

Spectrum Of Activity

General Spectrum of Activity

Antibiogram Data

Dosing

Renal

No adjustment necessary

Hepatic

Adult, moderate (Child-Pugh score B-C)
70 mg IV x 1, then 35 mg IV daily

Use must be approved by Infectious Diseases.

Adult

70 mg IV x 1 dose, then 50 mg IV daily

Use must be approved by Infectious Diseases.

Restricted Use

This antimicrobial is restricted to Infectious Diseases

General Information

Common Usage

Common Usage

Caspofungin is often used in management of suspected and confirmed invasive fungal infections, particularly Candidiasis and Aspergillosis

Drug Monitoring

Drug Monitoring
  • Liver enzymes at baseline and every 1-2 weeks

Adverse Effects

Adverse Effects

  • Infusion-related reactions (rash, pruritis)

  • Phlebitis

  • Headache

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Elevations in hepatic enzymes

Additional Information

Additional Information

Caspofungin has poor vitreous, CNS and urinary penetration. It should not be used for treatment of Candida urinary tract infections.

Use must be approved by Infectious Diseases.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology

Antimicrobial class: Echinocandin

Biliary penetration: Therapeutic

CSF penetration: Poor

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Urine penetration: Poor