Cryptococcocal meningitis (induction phase), in combination with amphotericin B or fluconazole
Forms and strengths
500 mg capsule and tablet
Dosage
Child over 1 week and adult: 25 mg/kg 4 times daily
Duration
One week if in combination with amphotericin B 2 weeks if in combination with fluconazole
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
Administer with caution and monitor use in patients > 60 years or with renal impairment or haematological disorders.
Reduce the dose by half (25 mg/kg 2 times daily) in patients with renal impairment.
May cause: gastrointestinal disturbances, haematological disorders(leukopenia,
thrombocytopenia, less frequently, agranulocytosis), increase in transaminase levels, allergic reactions sometimes severe; sometimes, confusion and halucinations.
Monitor blood count and liver and renal function until the end of treatment.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: flucytosine is generally not recommended. It is teratogenic in animals and its safety in pregnant or lactating women has not been established. However, taking into account the severity of the disease,the potential benefit of treatment for the mother and in the absence of a safer alternative, it may be used despite the potential risks for the child.
Remarks
For children, tablets may be crushed. Also comes in 250 mg capsule and tablet.