Voriconazole: a new triazole antifungal agent

Voriconazole is a second-generation azole antifungal agent that shows excellent in vitro activity against a wide variety of yeasts and molds. It can be given by either the intravenous or the oral route; the oral formulation has excellent bioavailability. The side effect profile of voriconazole is unique in that non-sight-threatening, transient visual disturbances occur in approximately 30% of patients given the drug. Rash (which can manifest as photosensitivity) and hepatitis also occur. The potential for drug-drug interactions is high and requires that careful attention be given to dosage regimens and monitoring of serum levels and effects of interacting drugs. Voriconazole has been approved for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis and refractory infections with Pseudallescheria/Scedosporium and Fusarium species, and it will likely become the drug of choice for treatment of serious infections with those filamentous fungi.