Echinocandin

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Echinocandin

Echinocandin (pronunciation: eh-kee-no-can-din) is a class of antifungal drugs that inhibit the synthesis of beta-glucan, a component of the fungal cell wall.

Etymology

The term "echinocandin" is derived from the name of the fungus Echinocandin, from which the first drug of this class was isolated. The suffix "-candin" is used for drugs that inhibit the synthesis of fungal cell wall components.

Related Terms

Usage

Echinocandins are used primarily in the treatment of invasive fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species and Aspergillus species. They are often used in patients who are critically ill or who have not responded to other antifungal treatments.

Pharmacology

Echinocandins work by inhibiting the enzyme 1,3-beta-D-glucan synthase, which is responsible for the synthesis of beta-glucan in the fungal cell wall. This leads to a weakening of the cell wall and ultimately the death of the fungus.

Examples

There are currently three echinocandins approved for use in humans: caspofungin, micafungin, and anidulafungin. All three are administered intravenously.

Side Effects

Common side effects of echinocandins include fever, rash, and abnormal liver function tests. More serious side effects can include anaphylaxis and damage to the liver.

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski