VORIER 200 TABLET

🦠🛡️💊 Voriconazole 200mg Tablet: A Powerful Antifungal for Serious Systemic Infections

Voriconazole 200mg tablet is a broad-spectrum antifungal medication used to treat severe, potentially life-threatening fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. Belonging to the triazole class, Voriconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. This leads to fungal cell death and stops the spread of infection. It is commonly prescribed for conditions like invasive aspergillosis, candidemia, and infections caused by Scedosporium or Fusarium species.

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Voriconazole inhibits fungal cytochrome P450-dependent 14α-lanosterol demethylation, an essential step in ergosterol synthesis. Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes unstable, leading to:

• Increased membrane permeability

• Impaired enzyme activity

• Fungal cell death

It is effective against a wide range of yeasts and molds, including strains resistant to other antifungal agents like fluconazole.

📌 Indications and Uses

Voriconazole 200mg is indicated for the treatment of serious fungal infections such as:

• Invasive Aspergillosis – a severe infection often affecting the lungs in patients with weakened immunity (e.g., cancer, transplant patients)

• Candidemia – bloodstream infections caused by Candida species

• Esophageal candidiasis – especially when refractory to other treatments

• Scedosporium and Fusarium infections – rare, but resistant mold infections

• Prophylaxis in high-risk patients – such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant

💊 Dosage and Administration

• Standard adult loading dose: 400mg every 12 hours on Day 1

• Maintenance dose: 200mg every 12 hours, usually for 14 days or longer depending on response and infection site

• Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or after a meal

• Dosage adjustments may be needed based on liver function, renal status, or drug levels

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) may be required to ensure effectiveness and avoid toxicity.

⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Liver toxicity: Regular monitoring of liver function is essential

• Visual disturbances: Blurred vision, photophobia, or color changes may occur

• QT prolongation: Avoid in patients with known heart rhythm disorders

• Hallucinations or CNS symptoms: More common in higher doses or prolonged use

• Sun sensitivity: Patients should avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen

Use with extreme caution in patients with hepatic impairment, and renal dysfunction if IV formulation is used.

🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Visual changes (up to 30% of patients)

• Rash or photosensitivity

• Liver enzyme elevation

• Headache

• Fever or chills

Serious:

• Hepatotoxicity (liver failure in rare cases)

• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)

• Hallucinations, confusion

• Cardiac arrhythmias

Report any visual disturbances, skin rashes, or signs of liver damage promptly.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Voriconazole is metabolized by CYP2C19, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4 enzymes. It interacts with many drugs, including:

• Warfarin, phenytoin, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, rifampin, and statins

• Avoid grapefruit juice, as it may alter drug levels

Dose modifications or close monitoring may be required when used with interacting drugs.

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–30°C, in a dry place, away from direct light

• Keep out of reach of children

📝 Conclusion

Voriconazole 200mg tablet is a potent antifungal agent essential for treating severe invasive fungal infections in high-risk, immunocompromised patients. With a broad spectrum and superior efficacy against Aspergillus and Candida, it remains a cornerstone in antifungal therapy. However, due to its narrow therapeutic window and potential for significant side effects, careful dosing and regular monitoring are crucial for safe and effective use.

Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.