Uses of Voriconazole

It is used to treat fungal infections.

Therapeutic Category

Voriconazole: Antifungal agents

How Voriconazole works

Voriconazole controls fungal infections by disrupting the fungal cell membrane. It acts by blocking the production of certain chemicals (ergosterol) within the fungal cell which is required for its survival. As a result, it stops the fungal cell from multiplication, thereby preventing the further spread of infection.

Common side effects of Voriconazole

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain
• headache
• heart rhythm problems (very fast or slow heartbeat, fainting)
• eye itching
• vision problems (such as blurred vision, colour changes, light sensitivity)
• fever, chills, weakness
• headache, dizziness, sleepiness
• constipation, indigestion
• inflammation of the sinuses
• low blood potassium or sodium levels
• breathing difficulties
• anxiety, depression, inability to sleep
• fits
• hair loss

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• If you experience signs of allergic reactions (such as severe skin rash with itching, blistering and peeling of the skin, mouth, eyes, throat, genitals, swelling of the face and tongue, bleeding under the skin causing appearance of red-pin point dots on the skin, skin swelling, along with fever, tiredness, confusion or jaundice)
• if you experience skin rashes, sun burn, red, scaly patches or ring-shaped skin lesions
• If you experience yellowing of the skin and whites of the eye, signs of adrenal insufficiency (such as severe tiredness, weak muscles, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach pain) or signs of Cushing’s syndrome (such as round face, weight gain, fatty hump between the shoulders, dark skin, skin thinning, easy bruising, high blood sugar levels, excessive hair growth and excessive sweating)
• If you experience joint pain

Health Tips for Voriconazole

• Take Voriconazole for the stipulated duration as instructed by your doctor even if you feel better during the midway of the therapy. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your doctor
• Use an effective contraception: If you are of reproductive age and taking voriconazole, discuss appropriate contraceptive measures with your healthcare provider, as the medication may have potential risks during pregnancy
• Inform your doctor about all your pre-existing disease conditions and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as a precaution
• Your healthcare provider may conduct periodic blood tests to monitor your liver function and ensure the medication is not causing any adverse effects. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and laboratory tests as advised
• During treatment with Voriconazole, avoid exposing your skin towards direct sunlight. Wear protective loose-fitting clothes and apply sunscreen while going outdoors