Echinocandins
Echinocandins
Echinocandins (pronounced: eh-kee-no-can-dins) are a class of antifungal drugs that inhibit the synthesis of beta-glucan, a component of the fungal cell wall. They are typically used to treat invasive fungal infections.
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.
Usage
Echinocandins are used to treat a variety of serious fungal infections, including candidiasis, aspergillosis, and Pneumocystis pneumonia. They are often used when other antifungal drugs are ineffective or cause unacceptable side effects.
Types of Echinocandins
There are currently three echinocandins approved for use:
Each of these drugs works by inhibiting the synthesis of beta-glucan, but they differ in their specific mechanisms of action and their pharmacokinetic properties.
Side Effects
Common side effects of echinocandins include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. More serious side effects can include liver damage and anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction.
Related Terms
- Antifungal
- Beta-glucan
- Candidiasis
- Aspergillosis
- Pneumocystis pneumonia
- Caspofungin
- Micafungin
- Anidulafungin
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Liver damage
- Anaphylaxis
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Echinocandins
- Wikipedia's article - Echinocandins
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