Noxafil
Generic Name: Posaconazole
What is Noxafil?
Noxafil is used to prevent invasive fungal infections (infections that can spread throughout the body) caused by Aspergillus or Candida in patients with weak immune systems because of medicines or diseases (such as stem cell transplantation with graft-vs.-host disease or chemotherapy for blood cancers).Noxafil is also used to treat fungal infections in the mouth or throat area (known as "thrush") caused by Candida. Noxafil can be used as initial treatment or as a treatment after itraconazole and/or fluconazole have failed.
What is the most important information I should know about Noxafil?
It is important to notify your physician of all prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking. It is especially important to notify your physician if you are taking any of the following medications: terfenadine, astemizole, pimozide, cisapride, quinidine, halofantrine, ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, methylsergide, methylergonovine, ergonovine, or bromocriptine), sirolimus, rifabutin, phenytoin, or cimetidine.Rarely, very serious liver problems have been reported in patients with serious underlying medical conditions. Your doctor may test your liver function while you are taking Noxafil. Call your doctor if you experience itching, yellowing of your eyes or skin, are tired more than usual or feel like you have the flu, or you have nausea or vomiting.
Noxafil may cause irregular heartbeat. Make sure to inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking and any past medical history.
If you notice swelling of one leg or shortness of breath, notify your doctor immediately.
Tell your doctor right away if you develop severe diarrhea or vomiting.
Who should not take Noxafil?
Do not take Noxafil if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or if you are taking any of the drugs noted above in "What is the most important information I should know about this medication?"Noxafil is not for use for children <13 years.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Noxafil?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking to avoid an interaction with Noxafil. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are taking certain drugs that suppress your immune system, have ever had an allergic reaction to other antifungal medicines, have a history of liver problems, have a history of abnormal heart rate or rhythm, are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Invasive Fungal Infection Prevention
Adults: Noxafil oral suspension should be given at 200 milligrams (mg) (5 milliliters [mL]) three times a day. The duration of therapy will be based on the recovery from your disease state.
Candidiasis (Thrush) of the Mouth or Throat
Adults: 100 mg (2.5 mL) twice a day on the first day, then 100 mg (2.5 mL) once a day for 13 days.
Candidiasis (Thrush) of the Mouth or Throat Resistant to Other Antifungal Drugs
Adults: 400 mg (10 mL) twice a day. Duration of treatment is based on the severity of your condition and how well you respond.
How should I take Noxafil?
Shake Noxafil well before use.Take each dose of Noxafil during or within 20 minutes of a full meal, or with a liquid nutritional supplement if you are unable to eat a full meal. Alternatively, you may take Noxafil with an acidic carbonated beverage (e.g., ginger ale).
A measured dosing spoon is provided, marked for doses of 2.5 mL and 5 mL. Rinse the spoon with water after each administration and before storage.
What should I avoid while taking Noxafil?
Avoid becoming pregnant while taking Noxafil.Avoid taking Noxafil with the drugs noted below.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Noxafil?
If Noxafil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Noxafil with any of the following: astemizole, atazanavir, calcium channel blockers, cimetidine, cisapride, cyclosporine, digoxin, efavirenz, ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, methylsergide, methylergonovine, ergonovine, or bromocriptine), esomeprazole, halofantrine, metoclopramide, midazolam, phenytoin, pimozide, quinidine, rifabutin, ritonavir, sirolimus, statins for lowering cholesterol, tacrolimus, terfenadine, vincristine, and vinblastine.What are the possible side effects of Noxafil?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, stomach pain, bloating, liver problems, low blood potassium, decrease in neutrophils (certain type of white blood cells that fight infection)
Can I receive Noxafil if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Noxafil during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Noxafil?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Noxafil?
Store at room temperature; do not freeze. Keep container tightly closed.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
