Medication reference
Voriconazole
Azole Antifungal [EPC] — INTRAVENOUS · ORAL
Voriconazole — Azole Antifungal [EPC]. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Voriconazole tablets are an azole antifungal indicated for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients aged 12 to 14 years we

Brand names
VFENDVoriconazolevoriconazoleVORICONAZOLE
Active ingredients
VORICONAZOLE
Indications
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Voriconazole tablets are an azole antifungal indicated for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight with: • Invasive aspergillosis ( 1.1 ) • Candidemia in non-neutropenics and other deep tissue Candida infections ( 1.2 ) • Esophageal candidiasis ( 1.3 ) • Serious fungal infections caused by Scedosporium apiospermum and Fusarium species including Fusarium solani , in patients intolerant of, or refractory to, other therapy ( 1.4 ) 1.1 Invasive Aspergillosis Voriconazole tablets are indicated in adults and pediatric patients (aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight) for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis (IA). In clinical trials, the majority of isolates recovered were Aspergillus fumigatus . There was a small number of cases of culture-proven disease due to species of Aspergillus other than A. fumigatus [see Clinical Studies (14.1 , 14.5) and Microbiology (12.4) ] . 1.2 Candidemia in Non-neutropenic Patients and Other Deep Tissue Candida Infections Voriconazole tablets are indicated in adults and pediatric patients (aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight) for the treatment of candidemia in non-neutropenic patients and the following Candida infections: disseminated infections in skin and infections in abdomen, kidney, bladder wall, and wounds [see Clinical Studies (14.2 , 14.5) and Microbiology (12.4) ]. 1.3 Esophageal Candidiasis Voriconazole tablets are indicated in adults and pediatric patients (aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight) for the treatment of esophageal candidiasis (EC) in adults and pediatric patients aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight [see Clinical Studies (14.3 , 14.5) and Microbiology (12.4) ]. 1.4 Scedosporiosis and Fusariosis Voriconazole tablets are indicated for the treatment of serious fungal infections caused by Scedosporium apiospermum (asexual form of Pseudallescheria boydii ) and Fusarium spp. including Fusarium solani , in adults and pediatric patients (aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight) intolerant of, or refractory to, other therapy [see Clinical Studies (14.4) and Microbiology (12.4) ]. 1.5 Usage Specimens for fungal culture and other relevant laboratory studies (including histopathology) should be obtained prior to therapy to isolate and identify causative organism(s). Therapy may be instituted before the results of the cultures and other laboratory studies are known. However, once these results become available, antifungal therapy should be adjusted accordingly. Additional pediatric use information is approved for PF PRISM C.V.'s VFEND (voriconazole). However, due to PF PRISM C.V.'s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information.
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Dosage in Adults ( 2.3 ) Infection Loading Dose Maintenance Dose Intravenous infusion Intravenous infusion Oral tablets Oral suspension Invasive Aspergillosis 6 mg/kg every 12 hours for the first 24 hours 4 mg/kg every 12 hours 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Candidemia in nonneutropenics and other deep tissue Candida infections 3–4 mg/kg every 12 hours 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Scedosporiosis and Fusariosis 4 mg/kg every 12 hours 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Esophageal Candidiasis Not Evaluated Not Evaluated 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours o Adult patients weighing less than 40 kg: oral maintenance dose 100 mg or 150 mg every 12 hours o Hepatic Impairment : Use half the maintenance dose in adult patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A and B) ( 2.5 ) o Renal Impairment : Avoid intravenous administration in adult patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min) ( 2.6 ) • Dosage in Pediatric Patients 2 years of age and older ( 2.4 ) o For pediatric patients 2 to less than 12 years of age and 12 to 14 years of age weighing less than 50 kg see Table below. Infection Loading Dose Maintenance Dose Intravenous infusion Intravenous infusion Oral tablets Oral suspension Invasive Aspergillosis 9 mg/kg every 12 hours for the first 24 hours 8 mg/kg every 12 hours after the first 24 hours 9 mg/kg every 12 hours (maximum dose of 350 mg every 12 hours) 0.225 mL/kg every 12 hours [maximum dose of 8.75 mL (350 mg) every 12 hours] Candidemia in nonneutropenics and other deep tissue Candida infections Scedosporiosis and Fusariosis Esophageal Candidiasis Not Evaluated 4 mg/kg every 12 hours 9 mg/kg every 12 hours (maximum dose of 350 mg every 12 hours) 0.225 mL/kg every 12 hours [maximum dose of 8.75 mL (350 mg) every 12 hours] o For pediatric patients aged 12 to 14 years weighing greater than or equal to 50 kg and those aged 15 years and older regardless of body weight use adult dosage. ( 2.4 ) o Dosage adjustment of VFEND in pediatric patients with renal or hepatic impairment has not been established ( 2.5 , 2.6 ) • See full prescribing information for instructions on reconstitution of VFEND lyophilized powder for intravenous use and important administration instructions ( 2.1 , 2.6 , 2.7 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions for Use in All Patients VFEND I.V. for Injection requires reconstitution to 10 mg/mL and subsequent dilution to 5 mg/mL or less prior to administration as an infusion, at a maximum rate of 3 mg/kg per hour over 1 to 3 hours. Administer diluted VFEND I.V. by intravenous infusion over 1 to 3 hours only. Do not administer as an IV bolus injection. 2.2 Use of VFEND I.V. with Other Parenteral Drug Products Blood products and concentrated electrolytes VFEND I.V. must not be infused concomitantly with any blood product or short-term infusion of concentrated electrolytes, even if the two infusions are running in separate intravenous lines (or cannulas). Electrolyte disturbances such as hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia should be corrected prior to initiation of and during VFEND therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . Intravenous solutions containing (non-concentrated) electrolytes VFEND I.V. can be infused at the same time as other intravenous solutions containing (non-concentrated) electrolytes, but must be infused through a separate line. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) VFEND I.V. can be infused at the same time as total parenteral nutrition, but must be infused in a separate line. If infused through a multiple-lumen catheter, TPN needs to be administered using a different port from the one used for VFEND I.V. 2.3 Recommended Dosing Regimen in Adults Invasive aspergillosis and serious fungal infections due to Fusarium spp. and Scedosporium apiospermum See Table 1. Therapy must be initiated with the specified loading dose regimen of intravenous VFEND on Day 1 followed by the recommended maintenance dose (RMD) regimen. Intravenous treatment should be continued for at least 7 days. Once the patient has clinically improved and can tolerate medication given by mouth, the oral tablet form or oral suspension form of VFEND may be utilized. The recommended oral maintenance dose of 200 mg achieves a voriconazole exposure similar to 3 mg/kg intravenously; a 300 mg oral dose achieves an exposure similar to 4 mg/kg intravenously [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Candidemia in non-neutropenic patients and other deep tissue Candida infections See Table 1. Patients should be treated for at least 14 days following resolution of symptoms or following last positive culture, whichever is longer. Esophageal Candidiasis See Table 1. Patients should be treated for a minimum of 14 days and for at least 7 days following resolution of symptoms. Table 1: Recommended Dosing Regimen (Adults) Infection Loading Dose Maintenance Dose Increase dose when VFEND is coadministered with phenytoin or efavirenz (7); Decrease dose in patients with hepatic impairment (2.5) , In healthy volunteer studies, the 200 mg oral every 12 hours dose provided an exposure (AUC τ ) similar to a 3 mg/kg intravenous infusion every 12 hours dose; the 300 mg oral every 12 hours dose provided an exposure (AUC τ ) similar to a 4 mg/kg intravenous infusion every 12 hours dose (12) . Intravenous infusion Intravenous infusion Oral tablets Adult patients who weigh less than 40 kg should receive half of the oral maintenance dose. Oral suspension Invasive Aspergillosis In a clinical study of IA, the median duration of intravenous VFEND therapy was 10 days (range 2 to 85 days). The median duration of oral VFEND therapy was 76 days (range 2 to 232 days) (14.1) . 6 mg/kg every 12 hours for the first 24 hours 4 mg/kg every 12 hours 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Candidemia in nonneutropenic patients and other deep tissue Candida infections 6 mg/kg every 12 hours for the first 24 hours 3–4 mg/kg every 12 hours In clinical trials, patients with candidemia received 3 mg/kg intravenous infusion every 12 hours as primary therapy, while patients with other deep tissue Candida infections received 4 mg/kg every 12 hours as salvage therapy. Appropriate dose should be based on the severity and nature of the infection. 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Esophageal Candidiasis Not Evaluated Not evaluated in patients with EC. Not Evaluated 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Scedosporiosis and Fusariosis 6 mg/kg every 12 hours for the first 24 hours 4 mg/kg every 12 hours 200 mg every 12 hours 5 mL every 12 hours Method for Adjusting the Dosing Regimen in Adults • If the patient's response is inadequate, the oral maintenance dose for VFEND tablets or oral suspension may be increased from 200 mg (or 5 mL) every 12 hours to 300 mg (or 7.5 mL) every 12 hours. • For adult patients weighing less than 40 kg, the oral maintenance dose for VFEND tablets or oral suspension may be increased from 100 mg (or 2.5 mL) every 12 hours to 150 mg (or 3.75 mL) every 12 hours. • If the patient is unable to tolerate 300 mg (or 7.5 mL) orally every 12 hours, reduce the oral maintenance dose of VFEND tablets or oral suspension by 50 mg (or 1.25 mL) steps to a minimum of 200 mg (or 5 mL) every 12 hours for adult patients weighing more than 40 kg or to 100 mg (or 2.5 mL) every 12 hours for adult patients weighing less than 40 kg. • If the patient is unable to tolerate 4 mg/kg intravenously every 12 hours, reduce the intravenous maintenance dose to 3 mg/kg every 12 hours. 2.4 Recommended Dosing Regimen in Pediatric Patients The recommended dosing regimen for pediatric patients 2 to less than 12 years of age and 12 to 14 years of age with body weight less than 50 kg is shown in Table 2. For pediatric patients 12 to 14 years of age with a body weight greater than or equal to 50 kg and those 15 years of age and above regardless of body weight, administer the adult dos
Warnings
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Hepatic Toxicity : Serious hepatic reactions reported. Evaluate liver function tests at start of and during VFEND therapy ( 5.1 ) • Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation : Correct potassium, magnesium, and calcium prior to use; caution patients with proarrhythmic conditions ( 5.2 ) • Infusion Related Reactions (including anaphylaxis) : Stop the infusion ( 5.3 ) • Visual Disturbances (including optic neuritis and papilledema): Monitor visual function if treatment continues beyond 28 days ( 5.4 ) • Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions : Discontinue for exfoliative cutaneous reactions ( 5.5 ) • Photosensitivity : Avoid sunlight due to risk of photosensitivity ( 5.6 ) • Adrenal Dysfunction : Carefully monitor patients receiving VFEND and corticosteroids (via all routes of administration) for adrenal dysfunction both during and after VFEND treatment. Instruct patients to seek immediate medical care if they develop signs and symptoms of Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency ( 5.8 ) • Embryo-Fetal Toxicity : Voriconazole can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Inform pregnant patients of the potential hazard to the fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with VFEND ( 5.9 , 8.1 , 8.3 ) • Skeletal Adverse Reactions : Fluorosis and periostitis with long-term voriconazole therapy. Discontinue if these adverse reactions occur ( 5.12 ) • Clinically Significant Drug Interactions : Review patient's concomitant medications ( 5.13 , 7 ) 5.1 Hepatic Toxicity In clinical trials, there have been uncommon cases of serious hepatic reactions during treatment with VFEND (including clinical hepatitis, cholestasis and fulminant hepatic failure, including fatalities). Instances of hepatic reactions were noted to occur primarily in patients with serious underlying medical conditions (predominantly hematological malignancy). Hepatic reactions, including hepatitis and jaundice, have occurred among patients with no other identifiable risk factors. Liver dysfunction has usually been reversible on discontinuation of therapy [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . A higher frequency of liver enzyme elevations was observed in the pediatric population [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Hepatic function should be monitored in both adult and pediatric patients. Measure serum transaminase levels and bilirubin at the initiation of VFEND therapy and monitor at least weekly for the first month of treatment. Monitoring frequency can be reduced to monthly during continued use if no clinically significant changes are noted. If liver function tests become markedly elevated compared to baseline, VFEND should be discontinued unless the medical judgment of the benefit/risk of the treatment for the patient justifies continued use [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) , and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . 5.2 Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation Some azoles, including VFEND, have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram. During clinical development and postmarketing surveillance, there have been rare cases of arrhythmias, (including ventricular arrhythmias such as torsade de pointes ), cardiac arrests and sudden deaths in patients taking voriconazole. These cases usually involved seriously ill patients with multiple confounding risk factors, such as history of cardiotoxic chemotherapy, cardiomyopathy, hypokalemia and concomitant medications that may have been contributory. VFEND should be administered with caution to patients with potentially proarrhythmic conditions, such as: • Congenital or acquired QT prolongation • Cardiomyopathy, in particular when heart failure is present • Sinus bradycardia • Existing symptomatic arrhythmias • Concomitant medicinal product that is known to prolong QT interval [see Contraindications (4) , Drug Interactions (7) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] Rigorous attempts to correct potassium, magnesium and calcium should be made before starting and during voriconazole therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 5.3 Infusion Related Reactions During infusion of the intravenous formulation of VFEND in healthy subjects, anaphylactoid-type reactions, including flushing, fever, sweating, tachycardia, chest tightness, dyspnea, faintness, nausea, pruritus and rash, have occurred uncommonly. Symptoms appeared immediately upon initiating the infusion. Consideration should be given to stopping the infusion should these reactions occur. 5.4 Visual Disturbances The effect of VFEND on visual function is not known if treatment continues beyond 28 days. There have been postmarketing reports of prolonged visual adverse reactions, including optic neuritis and papilledema. If treatment continues beyond 28 days, visual function including visual acuity, visual field, and color perception should be monitored [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . 5.5 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), which can be life-threatening or fatal, have been reported during treatment with VFEND. If a patient develops a severe cutaneous adverse reaction, VFEND should be discontinued [see Adverse Reactions (6.1 , 6.2) ] . 5.6 Photosensitivity VFEND has been associated with photosensitivity skin reaction. Patients, including pediatric patients, should avoid exposure to direct sunlight during VFEND treatment and should use measures such as protective clothing and sunscreen with high sun protection factor (SPF). If phototoxic reactions occur, the patient should be referred to a dermatologist and VFEND discontinuation should be considered. If VFEND is continued despite the occurrence of phototoxicity-related lesions, dermatologic evaluation should be performed on a systematic and regular basis to allow early detection and management of premalignant lesions. Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin (including cutaneous SCC in situ , or Bowen’s disease) and melanoma have been reported during long-term VFEND therapy in patients with photosensitivity skin reactions. If a patient develops a skin lesion consistent with premalignant skin lesions, squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma, VFEND should be discontinued. In addition, VFEND has been associated with photosensitivity related skin reactions such as pseudoporphyria, cheilitis, and cutaneous lupus erythematosus, as well as increased risk of skin toxicity with concomitant use of methotrexate, a drug associated with ultraviolet (UV) reactivation. There is the potential for this risk to be observed with other drugs associated with UV reactivation. Patients should avoid strong, direct sunlight during VFEND therapy. The frequency of phototoxicity reactions is higher in the pediatric population. Because squamous cell carcinoma has been reported in patients who experience photosensitivity reactions, stringent measures for photoprotection are warranted in children. In children experiencing photoaging injuries such as lentigines or ephelides, sun avoidance and dermatologic follow-up are recommended even after treatment discontinuation. 5.7 Renal Toxicity Acute renal failure has been observed in patients undergoing treatment with VFEND. Patients being treated with voriconazole are likely to be treated concomitantly with nephrotoxic medications and may have concurrent conditions that may result in decreased renal function. Patients should be monitored for the development of abnormal renal function. This should include laboratory evaluation of serum creatinine [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . 5.8 Adrenal Dysfunction Reversible cases of azole-induced adrenal insufficiency have been reported in patients receiving azoles, including VFEND. Adrenal insufficiency has been reported in patients receiving azoles with or without concomitant corticosteroids. In pat
Contraindications
CONTRAINDICATIONS Voriconazole tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to voriconazole or their excipients. There is no information regarding cross-sensitivity between voriconazole and other azole antifungal agents. Caution should be used when prescribing voriconazole tablets to patients with hypersensitivity to other azoles. Coadministration of pimozide, quinidine or ivabradine with voriconazole tablets is contraindicated because increased plasma concentrations of these drugs can lead to QT prolongation and rare occurrences of torsade de pointes [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with sirolimus is contraindicated because voriconazole tablets significantly increase sirolimus concentrations [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with rifampin, carbamazepine, long-acting barbiturates or St John’s Wort is contraindicated because these drugs are likely to decrease plasma voriconazole concentrations significantly [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Coadministration of standard doses of voriconazole with efavirenz doses of 400 mg every 24 hours or higher is contraindicated, because efavirenz significantly decreases plasma voriconazole concentrations in healthy subjects at these doses. Voriconazole also significantly increases efavirenz plasma concentrations [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with high-dose ritonavir (400 mg every 12 hours) is contraindicated because ritonavir (400 mg every 12 hours) significantly decreases plasma voriconazole concentrations. Coadministration of voriconazole and low-dose ritonavir (100 mg every 12 hours) should be avoided, unless an assessment of the benefit/risk to the patient justifies the use of voriconazole [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with rifabutin is contraindicated since voriconazole tablets significantly increase rifabutin plasma concentrations and rifabutin also significantly decreases voriconazole plasma concentrations [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with ergot alkaloids (ergotamine and dihydroergotamine) is contraindicated because voriconazole tablets may increase the plasma concentration of ergot alkaloids, which may lead to ergotism [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with naloxegol is contraindicated because voriconazole tablets may increase plasma concentrations of naloxegol which may precipitate opioid withdrawal symptoms [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with tolvaptan is contraindicated because voriconazole tablets may increase tolvaptan plasma concentrations and increase risk of adverse reactions [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with venetoclax at initiation and during the ramp-up phase is contraindicated in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) due to the potential for increased risk of tumor lysis syndrome [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with lurasidone is contraindicated since it may result in significant increases in lurasidone exposure and the potential for serious adverse reactions [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Coadministration of voriconazole tablets with finerenone is contraindicated since it may result in significant increases in finerenone exposure and the potential for serious adverse reactions [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Hypersensitivity to voriconazole or its excipients ( 4 ) Coadministration with pimozide, quinidine, sirolimus or ivabradine due to risk of serious adverse reactions ( 4 , 7 ) Coadministration with rifampin, carbamazepine, long-acting barbiturates, efavirenz, ritonavir, rifabutin, ergot alkaloids or St. John’s Wort due to risk of loss of efficacy ( 4 , 7 ) Coadministration with naloxegol, tolvaptan, lurasidone or finerenone due to risk of adverse reactions ( 4 , 7 ) Coadministration of voriconazole with venetoclax at initiation and during the ramp-up phase in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) due to increased risk of adverse reactions ( 4 , 7 )
Drug interactions
DRUG INTERACTIONS Voriconazole is metabolized by cytochrome P450 isoenzymes, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4. Therefore, inhibitors or inducers of these isoenzymes may increase or decrease voriconazole plasma concentrations, respectively. Voriconazole is a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, and also inhibits CYP2C19 and CYP2C9. Therefore, voriconazole may increase the plasma concentrations of substances metabolized by these CYP450 isoenzymes. Table 10 and Table 11 provide listings of clinically significant drug interactions, including contraindicated drugs [see Contraindications (4) ] . Drugs listed in Table 10 and Table 11 are a guide and not considered a comprehensive list of all possible drugs and herbal products that are contraindicated or may interact with VFEND. Table 10: Effect of Other Drugs on Voriconazole Pharmacokinetics [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] Drug/Drug Class (Mechanism of Interaction by the Drug) Voriconazole Plasma Exposure (C max and AUC τ after 200 mg every 12 hours) Prevention or Management Recommendations Rifampin Results based on in vivo clinical studies generally following repeat oral dosing with 200 mg every 12 hours voriconazole to healthy subjects and Rifabutin (CYP450 Induction) Significantly Reduced Contraindicated Efavirenz (400 mg every 24 hours) Results based on in vivo clinical study following repeat oral dosing with 400 mg every 12 hours for 1 day, then 200 mg every 12 hours for at least 2 days voriconazole to healthy subjects (CYP450 Induction) Significantly Reduced Contraindicated Efavirenz (300 mg every 24 hours) (CYP450 Induction) Slight Decrease in AUC τ When voriconazole is concomitantly administered with efavirenz, voriconazole oral maintenance dose should be increased to 400 mg every 12 hours and efavirenz should be decreased to 300 mg every 24 hours. High-dose Ritonavir (400 mg every 12 hours) (CYP450 Induction) Significantly Reduced Contraindicated Low-dose Ritonavir (100 mg every 12 hours) (CYP450 Induction) Reduced Concomitant administration of voriconazole and low-dose ritonavir (100 mg every 12 hours) should be avoided, unless an assessment of the benefit/risk to the patient justifies the use of voriconazole. Carbamazepine (CYP450 Induction) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Likely to Result in Significant Reduction Contraindicated Long Acting Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital, mephobarbital) (CYP450 Induction) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Likely to Result in Significant Reduction Contraindicated Phenytoin (CYP450 Induction) Significantly Reduced Increase voriconazole maintenance dose from 4 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg IV every 12 hours or from 200 mg to 400 mg orally every 12 hours (100 mg to 200 mg orally every 12 hours in patients weighing less than 40 kg). Letermovir (CYP2C9/2C19 Induction) Reduced If concomitant administration of voriconazole with letermovir cannot be avoided, monitor for reduced effectiveness of voriconazole. St. John's Wort (CYP450 inducer; P-gp inducer) Significantly Reduced Contraindicated Oral Contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (CYP2C19 Inhibition) Increased Monitoring for adverse reactions and toxicity related to voriconazole is recommended for concomitant administration with oral contraceptives. Fluconazole (CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 Inhibition) Significantly Increased Avoid concomitant administration of voriconazole and fluconazole. Monitoring for adverse reactions and toxicity related to voriconazole is started within 24 hours after the last dose of fluconazole. Other HIV Protease Inhibitors (CYP3A4 Inhibition) In Vivo Studies Showed No Significant Effects of Indinavir on Voriconazole Exposure In Vitro Studies Demonstrated Potential for Inhibition of Voriconazole Metabolism (Increased Plasma Exposure) No dosage adjustment in the voriconazole dosage needed for concomitant administration with indinavir. Frequent monitoring for adverse reactions and toxicity related to voriconazole for concomitant administration with other HIV protease inhibitors. Other NNRTIs Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (CYP3A4 Inhibition or CYP450 Induction) In Vitro Studies Demonstrated Potential for Inhibition of Voriconazole Metabolism by Delavirdine and Other NNRTIs (Increased Plasma Exposure) Frequent monitoring for adverse reactions and toxicity related to voriconazole. A Voriconazole-Efavirenz Drug Interaction Study Demonstrated the Potential for the Metabolism of Voriconazole to be Induced by Efavirenz and Other NNRTIs (Decreased Plasma Exposure) Careful assessment of voriconazole effectiveness. Table 11: Effect of Voriconazole on Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] Drug/Drug Class (Mechanism of Interaction by Voriconazole) Drug Plasma Exposure (C max and AUC τ ) Prevention or Management Recommendations Sirolimus Results based on in vivo clinical studies generally following repeat oral dosing with 200 mg BID voriconazole to healthy subjects (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Significantly Increased Contraindicated Rifabutin (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Significantly Increased Contraindicated Efavirenz (400 mg every 24 hours) Results based on in vivo clinical study following repeat oral dosing with 400 mg every 12 hours for 1 day, then 200 mg every 12 hours for at least 2 days voriconazole to healthy subjects (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Significantly Increased Contraindicated Efavirenz (300 mg every 24 hours) (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Slight Increase in AUC τ When voriconazole is concomitantly administered with efavirenz, voriconazole oral maintenance dose should be increased to 400 mg every 12 hours and efavirenz should be decreased to 300 mg every 24 hours. High-dose Ritonavir (400 mg every 12 hours) (CYP3A4 Inhibition) No Significant Effect of Voriconazole on Ritonavir C max or AUC τ Contraindicated because of significant reduction of voriconazole C max and AUC τ. Low-dose Ritonavir (100 mg every 12 hours) Slight Decrease in Ritonavir C max and AUC τ Concomitant administration of voriconazole and low-dose ritonavir (100 mg every 12 hours) should be avoided (due to the reduction in voriconazole C max and AUC τ ) unless an assessment of the benefit/risk to the patient justifies the use of voriconazole. Pimozide, Quinidine, Ivabradine (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Drug Plasma Exposure Likely to be Increased Contraindicated because of potential for QT prolongation and rare occurrence of torsade de pointes. Ergot Alkaloids (CYP450 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Drug Plasma Exposure Likely to be Increased Contraindicated Naloxegol (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Drug Plasma Exposure Likely to be Increased which may Increase the Risk of Adverse Reactions Contraindicated Tolvaptan (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Although Not Studied Clinically, Voriconazole is Likely to Significantly Increase the Plasma Concentrations of Tolvaptan Contraindicated Lurasidone (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Voriconazole is Likely to Significantly Increase the Plasma Concentrations of Lurasidone Contraindicated Finerenone (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Voriconazole is Likely to Significantly Increase the Plasma Concentrations of Finerenone Contraindicated Eplerenone (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Voriconazole is Likely to Significantly Increase the Plasma Concentrations of Eplerenone Contraindicated Voclosporin (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Voriconazole is Likely to Significantly Increase the Plasma Concentrations of Voclosporin Contraindicated Venetoclax (CYP3A4 Inhibition) Not Studied In Vivo or In Vitro , but Venetoclax Plasma Exposure Likely to be Significantly Increased Concomitant administration of voriconazole is contraindicated at initiation and during the ramp-up phase in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). Refer to the venetoclax labeling for safety monitoring
Adverse reactions
ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hepatic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Arrhythmias and QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Infusion Related Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Visual Disturbances [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Photosensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Renal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Adult Patients : The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥2%) were visual disturbances, fever, nausea, rash, vomiting, chills, headache, liver function test abnormal, tachycardia, hallucinations ( 6 ) • Pediatric Patients : The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5%) were visual disturbances, pyrexia, vomiting, epistaxis, nausea, rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea, hypertension, hypokalemia, cough, headache, thrombocytopenia, ALT abnormal, hypotension, peripheral edema, hyperglycemia, tachycardia, dyspnea, hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, LFT abnormal, mucosal inflammation, photophobia, abdominal distention, constipation, dizziness, hallucinations, hemoptysis, hypoalbuminemia, hypomagnesemia, renal impairment, upper respiratory tract infection ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc. at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Clinical Trials Experience in Adults Overview The most frequently reported adverse reactions (see Table 4 ) in the adult therapeutic trials were visual disturbances (18.7%), fever (5.7%), nausea (5.4%), rash (5.3%), vomiting (4.4%), chills (3.7%), headache (3.0%), liver function test increased (2.7%), tachycardia (2.4%), hallucinations (2.4%). The adverse reactions which most often led to discontinuation of voriconazole therapy were elevated liver function tests, rash, and visual disturbances [see Warning and Precautions (5.1 , 5.4) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . The data described in Table 4 reflect exposure to voriconazole in 1655 patients in nine therapeutic studies. This represents a heterogeneous population, including immunocompromised patients, e.g., patients with hematological malignancy or HIV and non-neutropenic patients. This subgroup does not include healthy subjects and patients treated in the compassionate use and non-therapeutic studies. This patient population was 62% male, had a mean age of 46 years (range 11–90, including 51 patients aged 12–18 years), and was 78% White and 10% Black. Five hundred sixty one patients had a duration of voriconazole therapy of greater than 12 weeks, with 136 patients receiving voriconazole for over six months. Table 4 includes all adverse reactions which were reported at an incidence of ≥2% during voriconazole therapy in the all therapeutic studies population, studies 307/602 and 608 combined, or study 305, as well as events of concern which occurred at an incidence of <2%. In study 307/602, 381 patients (196 on voriconazole, 185 on amphotericin B) were treated to compare voriconazole to amphotericin B followed by other licensed antifungal therapy (OLAT) in the primary treatment of patients with acute IA. The rate of discontinuation from voriconazole study medication due to adverse reactions was 21.4% (42/196 patients). In study 608, 403 patients with candidemia were treated to compare voriconazole (272 patients) to the regimen of amphotericin B followed by fluconazole (131 patients). The rate of discontinuation from voriconazole study medication due to adverse reactions was 19.5% out of 272 patients. Study 305 evaluated the effects of oral voriconazole (200 patients) and oral fluconazole (191 patients) in the treatment of EC. The rate of discontinuation from voriconazole study medication in Study 305 due to adverse reactions was 7% (14/200 patients). Laboratory test abnormalities for these studies are discussed under Clinical Laboratory Values below. Table 4: Adverse Reactions Rate ≥ 2% on Voriconazole or Adverse Reactions of Concern in Therapeutic Studies Population, Studies 307/602–608 Combined, or Study 305. Possibly Related to Therapy or Causality Unknown Study 307/602: IA; Study 608: candidemia; Study 305: EC Therapeutic Studies Studies 303, 304, 305, 307, 309, 602, 603, 604, 608 Studies 307/602 and 608 (IV/ oral therapy) Study 305 (oral therapy) Voriconazole N=1655 Voriconazole N=468 Ampho B Amphotericin B followed by other licensed antifungal therapy N=185 Ampho B→ Fluconazole N=131 Voriconazole N=200 Fluconazole N=191 N (%) N (%) N (%) N (%) N (%) N (%) Special Senses See Warnings and Precautions (5.4) Abnormal vision 310 (18.7) 63 (13.5) 1 (0.5) 0 31 (15.5) 8 (4.2) Photophobia 37 (2.2) 8 (1.7) 0 0 5 (2.5) 2 (1.0) Chromatopsia 20 (1.2) 2 (0.4) 0 0 2 (1.0) 0 Body as a Whole Fever 94 (5.7) 8 (1.7) 25 (13.5) 5 (3.8) 0 0 Chills 61 (3.7) 1 (0.2) 36 (19.5) 8 (6.1) 1 (0.5) 0 Headache 49 (3.0) 9 (1.9) 8 (4.3) 1 (0.8) 0 1 (0.5) Cardiovascular System Tachycardia 39 (2.4) 6 (1.3) 5 (2.7) 0 0 0 Digestive System Nausea 89 (5.4) 18 (3.8) 29 (15.7) 2 (1.5) 2 (1.0) 3 (1.6) Vomiting 72 (4.4) 15 (3.2) 18 (9.7) 1 (0.8) 2 (1.0) 1 (0.5) Liver function tests abnormal 45 (2.7) 15 (3.2) 4 (2.2) 1 (0.8) 6 (3.0) 2 (1.0) Cholestatic jaundice 17 (1.0) 8 (1.7) 0 1 (0.8) 3 (1.5) 0 Metabolic and Nutritional Systems Alkaline phosphatase increased 59 (3.6) 19 (4.1) 4 (2.2) 3 (2.3) 10 (5.0) 3 (1.6) Hepatic enzymes increased 30 (1.8) 11 (2.4) 5 (2.7) 1 (0.8) 3 (1.5) 0 SGOT increased 31 (1.9) 9 (1.9) 0 1 (0.8) 8 (4.0) 2 (1.0) SGPT increased 29 (1.8) 9 (1.9) 1 (0.5) 2 (1.5) 6 (3.0) 2 (1.0) Hypokalemia 26 (1.6) 3 (0.6) 36 (19.5) 16 (12.2) 0 0 Bilirubinemia 15 (0.9) 5 (1.1) 3 (1.6) 2 (1.5) 1 (0.5) 0 Creatinine increased 4 (0.2) 0 59 (31.9) 10 (7.6) 1 (0.5) 0 Nervous System Hallucinations 39 (2.4) 13 (2.8) 1 (0.5) 0 0 0 Skin and Appendages Rash 88 (5.3) 20 (4.3) 7 (3.8) 1 (0.8) 3 (1.5) 1 (0.5) Urogenital Kidney function abnormal 10 (0.6) 6 (1.3) 40 (21.6) 9 (6.9) 1 (0.5) 1 (0.5) Acute kidney failure 7 (0.4) 2 (0.4) 11 (5.9) 7 (5.3) 0 0 Visual Disturbances VFEND treatment-related visual disturbances are common. In therapeutic trials, approximately 21% of patients experienced abnormal vision, color vision change and/or photophobia. Visual disturbances may be associated with higher plasma concentrations and/or doses. The mechanism of action of the visual disturbance is unknown, although the site of action is most likely to be within the retina. In a study in healthy subjects investigating the effect of 28-day treatment with voriconazole on retinal function, VFEND caused a decrease in the electroretinogram (ERG) waveform amplitude, a decrease in the visual field, and an alteration in color perception. The ERG measures electrical currents in the retina. These effects were noted early in administration of VFEND and continued through the course of study drug treatment. Fourteen days after the end of dosing, ERG, visual fields and color perception returned to normal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Dermatological Reactions Dermatological reactions were common in patients treated with VFEND. The mechanism underlying these dermatologic adverse reactions remains unknown. Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) have been reported during treatment with VFEND. Erythema multiforme has also been reported during treatment with VFEND [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . VFEND has also been associated with additional photosensitivity related skin reactions such as pseudoporphyria, cheili
Mechanism of action
Mechanism of Action Voriconazole is an antifungal drug [see Microbiology (12.4) ] . Mechanism of Action Voriconazole is an azole antifungal drug. The primary mode of action of voriconazole is the inhibition of fungal cytochrome P-450-mediated 14 alpha-lanosterol demethylation, an essential step in fungal ergosterol biosynthesis. The accumulation of 14 alpha-methyl sterols correlates with the subsequent loss of ergosterol in the fungal cell wall and may be responsible for the antifungal activity of voriconazole.
Available forms (9)
20 ML voriconazole 10 MG/ML Injectionvoriconazole 200 MG Injectionvoriconazole 200 MG Oral Tabletvoriconazole 40 MG/ML Oral Suspensionvoriconazole 50 MG Oral Tabletvoriconazole 200 MG Injection [Vfend]brandvoriconazole 200 MG Oral Tablet [Vfend]brandvoriconazole 40 MG/ML Oral Suspension [Vfend]brandvoriconazole 50 MG Oral Tablet [Vfend]brand
NDC examples
0049-419027241-06227241-06355150-32148433-14648433-14765219-19070436-23072673-11172162-119814335-73051079-164
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Source: openFDA + RxNorm · 2026
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