Caspofungin
Also known as: Cancidas
- **Inpatient Use Only**: This medication must be administered via intravenous infusion and is appropriate for inpatient hospital use only. - **Investigational Nature**: Pet owners should understand that the use of this drug in veterinary patients is highly investigational. - **Cost**: Treatment with caspofungin is associated with significant expense.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Invasive aspergillosis or disseminated candidal infections (Investigational)
- Invasive aspergillosis or disseminated candidal infections (Investigational)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Histamine-mediated signs (rash, facial swelling, pruritus)
- Anaphylaxis
- Intravenous site reactions (pain, redness, phlebitis)
- Hepatic dysfunction
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to caspofungin
- Significant hepatic impairment
- > **Hepatic Impairment**: Dosage adjustment is recommended in humans with moderate hepatic impairment. Avoid use in patients with significant hepatic impairment. > **Pregnancy**: FDA Category C. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on fetal ossification. Avoid during the first trimester unless the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. > **Lactation**: Likely safe to administer during lactation because the drug is not appreciably absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Drug interactions
- Carbamazepine: Reduced caspofungin plasma levels
- Cyclosporine: Increased caspofungin plasma levels and increased risk of hepatic enzyme increases
- Dexamethasone: Reduced caspofungin plasma levels
- Phenytoin: Reduced caspofungin plasma levels
- Rifampin: Reduced caspofungin plasma levels
Frequently asked questions
What is Caspofungin used for in pets?
- **Inpatient Use Only**: This medication must be administered via intravenous infusion and is appropriate for inpatient hospital use only. - **Investigational Nature**: Pet owners should understand that the use of this drug in veterinary patients is highly investigational. - **Cost**: Treatment with caspofungin is associated with significant expense.
Is Caspofungin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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