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Noxafil

posaconazole
Used for Candidiasis, Fungal Infection, Thrush
Used for Candidiasis, Fungal Infection, Thrush

Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion is an azole antifungal. It's used to treat serious Aspergillus fungal infections in adults and children ages 13 years and older. It's also used to prevent Candida and Aspergillus infections (prophylaxis) in adults and children ages 2 years and older with weakened immune systems. Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion is given as an infusion into the veins, typically twice a day on the first day and then once a day thereafter. This medication is available under the brand name Noxafil and as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and abnormal liver tests.

Last reviewed on September 23, 2024
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What is Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion?

What is Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion used for?

  • Prevention of serious fungal infections caused by Candida and Aspergillus

  • Treatment of serious Aspergillus infection

How Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion works

Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion is an azole antifungal. It works by damaging the protective outer layer of the fungus causing your infection.

Are you looking for information on posaconazole (Noxafil) oral tablets and suspension instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsNoxafil
Drug ClassAntifungal
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Diarrhea (32%)
  • Low potassium levels (22%)
  • Fever (21%)
  • Nausea (19%)
  • Rash (15%)
  • Nose bleed (14%)
  • Headache (14%)
  • Stomach pain (13%)
  • Vomiting (12%)
  • Chills (12%)
  • Swelling in arms or legs (12%)
Note: The side effects listed above were reported by adults taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion for prevention of fungal infections.

Other Side Effects

  • Cough
  • High blood pressure
  • Poor appetite
  • Feeling tired
  • Constipation

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious liver problems: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, flu-like symptoms
  • Abnormal heart rhythm: irregular heartbeat, racing heart, chest pain, dizziness
  • Changes in electrolytes: nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, muscle weakness, abnormal heartbeat, feeling tired

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Abdominal or stomach pain

black, tarry stools

bloody nose

blurred vision

body aches or pain

confusion

cough

diarrhea

difficult or labored breathing

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

drowsiness

fever or chills

fruit-like breath odor

heavy non-menstrual vaginal bleeding

increased thirst or urination

irregular heartbeats

loss of voice

muscle pain, spasms, or twitching

nausea or vomiting

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, lips, mouth, or fingertips

painful cold sores or blisters on the lips, nose, eyes, or genitals

painful or difficult urination

pounding in the ears

slow or fast heartbeat

small red or purple spots on the skin

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips, tongue, or inside the mouth

sweating

tender, swollen glands in the neck

tightness in the chest

trembling

trouble swallowing

unexplained weight loss

yellow eyes or skin

Less common

Fainting

irregular heartbeat, recurrent

Incidence not known

Anxiety

change in mental status

chest pain or discomfort

darkening of the skin

itching or skin rash

mental depression

seizures

sudden shortness of breath or troubled breathing

swelling of the eyes or eyelids

swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Acid or sour stomach

back pain

belching

difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)

heartburn

muscle stiffness

pain in the joints

trouble sleeping

Less common

Bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste

change in taste

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion

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Pros

Can be used in adults and children

Once-daily dosing after the first day

A good option for people who can't take medications by mouth

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Cons

Many interactions with other medications

Might not be a good option for people with moderate or severe kidney problems

Might not be safe during pregnancy

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion

pharmacist
  • You'll typically receive posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion in a hospital setting or at home. Don't stop taking the medication early even if you feel better since this can put you at risk for an infection that's harder to treat.

    • If you miss your dose of posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion, take it as soon as possible. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your usual dosing schedule. Call your prescriber and let them know if you miss any doses.

      • Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion interacts with many medications, including alprazolam (Xanax), simvastatin (Zocor), and phenytoin (Dilantin). This isn't a complete list of all drug interactions, so please speak with your healthcare professional before starting posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. Be sure to tell them about any over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products you take.

        • If you're receiving posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion at home, your care team might ask you to store it there. Keep posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion vials in the refrigerator until you're ready for a dose. The vials must be mixed with a special type of solution before you can use them.

          • Once mixed, posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Throw away any medication that isn't used after you get your dose, and don't try to save any medication for later use.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion

            How long should posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion be taken?
            The amount of time you'll need to receive posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion depends on different factors like why you're taking it and how well your infection is responding to treatment. If you're taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion to prevent fungal infections, your prescriber will likely have you continue to take it until your immune system is strong enough to fight off infections on its own. If you're receiving posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion to treat an infection, treatment typically lasts 6 to 12 weeks, depending on how quickly you recover. If you're able to take medications by mouth, your healthcare team might consider switching you from posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion to oral posaconazole (Noxafil) during treatment.
            How long does posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion infusion take?
            A posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion infusion typically takes around 30 to 90 minutes. This usually depends on where exactly the medication is getting infused. Follow up with your healthcare professional for more details on how long your infusion will take.
            Does posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion lower white blood cell count?
            Some people taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion during clinical studies did experience having a lower white blood cell count. But it's unclear if this was caused by posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion or another reason. Taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion with certain medications, such as Venclexta (venetoclax), can raise your risk for lower white blood cell counts. Make sure to tell your care team about all of the medications you're taking before starting posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. They can watch your white blood cell count through blood tests.
            Does posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion cause hair loss?
            Hair loss wasn't a commonly-reported side effect during studies of posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. If you notice more hair falling out than usual, contact your primary care provider so they can help you find the cause.
            Is posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion safe during pregnancy?
            There isn't enough information to know how safe posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion is in humans during pregnancy. Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion caused harm to unborn babies during studies in animals. While this doesn't always represent what happens in humans, the risk can't be ruled out. If you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your healthcare professional.
            Does posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion cause liver damage?
            Although rare, posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can cause liver problems. Most of the time, it's mild and you won't notice any symptoms. But your healthcare team might see abnormal liver enzyme levels on blood work that checks your liver health. Typically, your liver enzyme levels should go back to the normal range once you stop receiving posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. But rarely, people have experienced serious liver problems that were life-threatening. As a precaution, your healthcare team might order blood work regularly during treatment to check your liver health. Let your care team know if you notice symptoms of liver problems, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion?

            Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            QT prolongation (heart rhythm problem)

            • Risk factors: History of abnormal heart rhythm | Taking other medications that cause heart rhythm problem | Taking medications that cause posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion to build up in your body

              Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can cause a serious heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation. The risk is higher for people who already have heart rhythm problems or are taking medications that also have a risk of causing heart rhythm problems. Let your healthcare team know about all medications and supplements you're taking so they can check if you're at higher risk for QT prolongation.

              risk-warning

              Changes in electrolytes

              Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can cause changes to electrolytes levels in your body like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Usually, this change is minor and can be corrected with supplements. But if these levels drop too low, they can cause problems with your heart. Make sure you get any blood tests ordered by your prescriber done on time while taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. This will help them catch problems earlier.

              risk-warning

              Liver damage

              • Risk factors: History of liver problems

                Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can cause liver problems. Most of the time, you won't experience any symptoms. But your healthcare team might note higher liver enzyme levels on blood work that checks your liver health. Typically, your liver enzyme levels should go back to the normal range once you stop receiving posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. But rarely, people have experienced serious liver problems that were life-threatening. As a precaution, your healthcare team might order blood work regularly during treatment to check your liver health. If there are signs of liver problems, they might ask you to stop taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. Get medical help right away if you feel symptoms of serious liver problems, such as unexplained stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

                risk-warning

                Interaction with transplant medications

                • Risk factors: Taking calcineurin inhibitors

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion interacts with medications known as calcineurin inhibitors, which are usually taken by people who've had organ transplants or have certain immune conditions. Examples include cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral) and tacrolimus (Prograf). Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion can cause these medications to build up in your body. This can cause serious problems like brain damage (leukoencephalopathy) and kidney damage, which can be life-threatening. Be sure to tell your care team all the medications you take before starting posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion so they can help you check for interactions.

                  risk-warning

                  Interaction with midazolam

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion interacts with midazolam (Seizalam), a medication used for seizures and anesthesia. Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion causes midazolam to build up in your body, making it more likely you'll have side effects or have trouble waking up. This interaction is life-threatening, so you shouldn't take these two medications together. Make sure you tell your prescriber if you take midazolam before starting posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. If you need to have any surgical procedures done while taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion, be sure to tell your surgeon you are taking this medication so they can pick anesthesia that won't interact with posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion.

                  risk-warning

                  Interaction with vincristine

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion interacts with a cancer medication called vincristine. Taking these medications together can cause seizures, nerve damage, or bowel blockages. Make sure you tell the healthcare professional prescribing posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion if you take any cancer medications. Your healthcare team might only ask you to take this combination if there are no safer alternative treatments available. If so, they'll go over the risks and benefits of treatment and monitor you closely for side effects.

                  risk-warning

                  Interaction with venetoclax

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion interacts with a medication called Venclexta (venetoclax). Taking these medications together can raise the risk of life-threatening side effects, such as tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) and serious infections. Review of list of your current medications with your prescriber before taking posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. Your healthcare team can help you check for interactions and talk with you about alternative options if needed.

                  dosage

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion dosage forms

                  Typical dosing for Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion

                  Treatment of serious Aspergillus infection:

                  • Adults and children ages 13 years and older: The typical dose is 300 mg infused into the vein twice a day for the first day, followed by 300 mg once a day thereafter.

                  Prevention of serious Candida and Aspergillus infections:

                  • Adults: The typical dose is 300 mg infused into the vein twice a day for the first day, followed by 300 mg once a day thereafter.

                  • Children ages 2 to 17 years old: The typical dose is 6 mg/kg of body weight (up to 300 mg) infused into the vein on the first day, followed by 6 mg/kg (up to 300 mg) once a day thereafter.

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion and other drugs

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                  contraindications-icon

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion contraindications

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion will not be safe for you to take.
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion
                  Used for:
                  • Prevention of serious fungal infections caused by Candida and Aspergillus

                  • Treatment of serious Aspergillus infection

                  $76.59 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  $75.86 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Fungal infections in people with a fever and a low number of white blood cells

                  • Cryptococcal meningitis in people with HIV

                  • People with severe fungal infections caused by Aspergillus, Candida, or Cryptococcus who have already tried other antifungals or cannot take other antifungals

                  • Black fever (visceral leishmaniasis)

                  images

                  Posaconazole (Noxafil) infusion images

                  Posaconazole Coupon - Posaconazole 16.7ml of 18mg / ml vial
                  vial (16.7ml) 18mg/ml of posaconazolePosaconazole Coupon - Posaconazole 16.7ml of 18mg / ml vial

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Adeyinka, A., et al. (2024). Tumor lysis syndrome. StatPearls.

                  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Aspergillosis basics.

                  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Risk factors for candidiasis.

                  View All References (4)

                  Gland Pharma Limited. (2024). Posaconazole injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  MedlinePlus. (2023). Posaconazole injection.

                  MedlinePlus. (2024). Leukoencephalopathy.

                  National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Posaconazole. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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