About voriconazole
Triazole antifungal
Used for
- Treats serious fungal infections, including invasive aspergillosis and candidiasis.
- Treats serious infections caused by Scedosporium or Fusarium species.
Usual adult dose
Usually 6 mg/kg intravenously every 12 hours for two doses, then 4 mg/kg every 12 hours; adjusted for response and tolerability.
Usual dose in children
For ages 2 to under 15, usually 9 mg/kg intravenously every 12 hours for two doses, then 8 mg/kg every 12 hours; specialist dosing applies.
Common side effects
- Visual changes, including blurred vision or altered color perception
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
- Rash and increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Abnormal liver tests or headache
Important warnings
- Can cause serious liver injury; liver tests are monitored during treatment.
- May cause vision changes, severe skin reactions, or abnormal heart rhythm.
- Intravenous formulation contains sulfobutyl ether beta-cyclodextrin, which can accumulate with impaired kidney function.
- Strong sunlight can cause skin damage; long-term use increases skin cancer risk.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby; generally avoided during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks.
Breastfeeding
Whether voriconazole passes into breast milk is unknown; breastfeeding decisions require clinician guidance.
Interactions
- Many medicines interact, including rifampin, carbamazepine, and St John’s wort; some combinations are contraindicated.
- Can raise levels of warfarin, certain statins, immunosuppressants, and some sedatives.
- Other medicines affecting heart rhythm may increase risk of abnormal heartbeat.
- Check all prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, and supplements for interactions.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.