What is Caspofungin?
Caspofungin, an antifungal medication, is used to treat infections caused by fungus. Caspofungin treats fungal infections in the stomach, lungs, or other body parts. Caspofungin can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Caspofungin
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat, or a severe reaction to your skin (such as a fever, sore throat, burning eyes, or skin pain or rashes that are red or purple and cause blistering or peeling), seek emergency medical attention.
If you:
- Pain, swelling, or vein irritation around an IV needle
- Flu symptoms often include fever, chills and body aches.
- You may experience swelling in your hands or feet.
- Weakness, muscle cramps, pounding, or uneven heartbeats;
- Low potassium--characterized by confusion, irregular heartbeat, extreme thirst, increased urine output, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limpness; or an overall limp sensation--can lead to symptoms including confusion, uneven heartrate, extreme thirst, increased urine production and an increase in urinary frequency; as well as other possible consequences such as confusion; unsteadiness in heartrate control or difficulty sleeping; leg discomfort and muscle weakness as well as weak legs can accompany low potassium.
- Liver problems: nausea; itching; tiredness; lack of appetite; dark urine; and clay-coloured stools. Jaundice.
Side effects that are common include:
- Diarrhoea;
- Fever, chills;
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Skin rash
- Dizziness, feeling light-headed.
There may be other side effects. Call your doctor if experiencing side effects; alternatively, reach out to the Food and Drug Administration by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report these incidents.
Similar/related drugs
Ciprofloxacin, Augmentin, Fluconazole, Amoxicillin/clavulanate, Vancomycin, Diflucan, and Gentamicin
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider of any existing conditions or allergies as well as medications you are currently taking.
Before you take this drug
Caspofungin should not be used if you have an allergy to it.
Inform your doctor immediately of any of the following issues:
- Liver disease
- An allergic reaction is a serious condition.
Caspofungin is not known to harm unborn babies. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Caspofungin may make it unsafe to breastfeed. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
How to take Caspofungin?
Caspofungin can be infused into a vein. Your healthcare provider may give you your first dose and teach you how to use it properly.
Please carefully read and follow all directions included with your medication before beginning its use.. Caspofungin should not be used if you do not understand the instructions.Should you have any inquiries, it's always a good idea to consult your pharmacist or physician.
Caspofungin should be mixed with liquid (diluent) before use. Caspofungin must be mixed with the diluent liquid that you were given. Use only liquids that do not contain glucose or dextrose.
Only prepare your injection when you're ready to administer it. If the medicine is cloudy, has changed colour, or contains particles, do not use it. For new medicine, call your pharmacist.
Caspofungin should be administered slowly and can take up to an hour for the IV infusion. Caspofungin should be taken for at least fourteen days. This medicine may be needed for at least seven days after symptoms have disappeared or until lab tests confirm that the infection is cleared.
Even if you feel better quickly, continue to take this medication for the entire prescribed time. You can get resistant to infections if you skip doses. Other medications may be prescribed to treat your infection. Continue to use these medications as prescribed by your doctor.
Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in a "sharps container" that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of reach of pets and children. Caspofungin is best stored in the refrigerator. Don't freeze. Do not freeze. You can store the mix for up to 48 hours if you put it in the refrigerator.
What happens if I miss the dose
If you miss a dosage, call your doctor to get instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products, may also affect caspofungin. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
