Vfend (Voriconazole) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Vfend (voriconazole) Indications

Vfend, generic voriconazole, is a triazole antifungal used to treat infections in adults and children.

Voriconazole is prescribed for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, esophageal candidiasis, candidemia, and severe fungal infections associated with Scedosporium apiospermum and Fusarium species.

Voriconazole demonstrates its antifungal efficacy through a disruption of ergosterol synthesis, a vital part of the fungal cell membrane, that upholds the structural integrity and proper functioning of the membrane.

Voriconazole may not be effective against all types of fungal infections, as some fungi may be resistant to it and alternative antifungal treatments are then required.

Vfend (voriconazole) Uses and Dosage

Follow the administration guidelines provided by your healthcare professional, including the recommended dosage and any specific directions related to your condition.

For most fungal infections, the recommended adult dosage is 200 mg (one tablet) taken every 12 hours by mouth with a glass of water one hour before or one hour after a meal. In some cases, a loading dose of 400 mg (two tablets) may be given twice daily for the first 24 hours, followed by the regular maintenance dose of 200 mg (one tablet) every 12 hours.

Swallow the tablets without breaking, crushing, or chewing them, as doing so can affect the intended absorption of the medication.

Vfend (voriconazole) Side Effects

Common side effects of voriconazole may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Fatigue or weakness

Severe side effects, while infrequent, may include the following:

• Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or light sensitivity
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Severe abdominal pain
• Liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine)
• Kidney problems (changes in the amount of urine)
• Bone/joint pain
• Chest pain
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Unexplained fatigue
• Swelling of hands/feet
• Weight loss (appetite loss)
• Immunosuppression
• Mental changes (confusion, hallucinations, seizures, unusual behavior)

Alert your prescriber if any of the severe side effects occur. Furthermore, individuals may have an allergic response to voriconazole. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• Swelling
• Rash or hives
• Itching
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Shortness of breath

Vfend (voriconazole) Cautions

Individuals with the following conditions should not use voriconazole:

• Liver disease
• Hereditary conditions (galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption)
• Heart problems (irregular heartbeat)

Voriconazole has the potential to interact with various medications, including the following:

• CYP3A4 inhibitors
• CYP3A4 inducers
• Antiarrhythmics
• Ergot alkaloids
• Anticoagulants
• Statins
• Benzodiazepines

Alcohol consumption must be restricted when taking voriconazole because combining the two can lead to an increased risk of liver damage or impairment.

Voriconazole can increase your sensitivity to sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) light sources, such as tanning beds or sunlamps. Limit exposure to the sun and UV light, apply sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.

Vfend (voriconazole) Form and Strength

Voriconazole is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Vfend tablet
  • 50 mg
  • 200 mg
• Voriconazole tablet
  • 50 mg
  • 200 mg

FAQ

How long does voriconazole treatment last?

Treatment duration of voriconazole may range from a few weeks to several months depending on the fungi being treated and how serious it is.

Does voriconazole affect the kidney?

Voriconazole can affect kidney function in some individuals.

Resources

1. https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=618
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-63751-5326/vfend-oral/voriconazole-oral/details
3. https://www.drugs.com/vfend.html
4. https://www.rxlist.com/vfend-drug.htm