Core pharmacology

Class Group

Antifungal

Legacy Cicm Level

Level 3

Introduction

Polyene

Mechanism of action

Polyenes specifically target fungal membranes. They bind ergosterol, which is the principal sterol in fungal membranes as opposed to cholesterol found in host membranes. This interference creates a transmembrane channel and the resultant change in permeability allows leakage of intracellular components

Antimicrobial Spectrum

Broad antifungal cover including candida, Cryptococcus, aspergillus and zygomyces

Adverse Effects Toxicity

Dose related nephrotoxicity
Infusion related reactions (hypotension, fever, rigors)

Absorption

only administered IV

Distribution

Poor tissue penetration. Negligable CSF or urine penetration.

Protein binding

Highly protein bound

Metabolism

Metabolised by the liver

Excretion

poorly characterized but does not accumulate in renal failure