What is Noxafil?

Noxafil (posaconazole) is an antifungal medicine that fights certain infections caused by fungus. Noxafil is used to prevent fungal infections in people who have a weak immune system resulting from certain treatments or conditions (such as chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, HIV infection, graft-versus-host disease, and others). Noxafil oral suspension (liquid) is used to treat oral thrush (yeast infection of the mouth) in adults and children who are at least 13 years old.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Take this medication by mouth with a full meal as directed by your doctor. If you cannot take this medication with a full meal, then take it with a liquid nutritional supplement or a carbonated beverage (such as ginger ale). Shake the medication well before using. Carefully measure the medication using the provided dose-measuring spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
• The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• For the best effect, take this antifungal at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.
• Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
• The tablet and suspension forms of posaconazole may deliver different amounts of medication. Do not switch between the different forms of this medication without your doctor's permission and directions.
• Tell your doctor if you have severe diarrhea or vomiting. Posaconazole may not work as well. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse, or if you cannot take this medication with a full meal, a carbonated beverage, or a liquid nutritional supplement.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease.

Also be aware that:

• Posaconazole may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.
• The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using posaconazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).
• Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/"water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using posaconazole safely.
• This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Alcohol may also increase the risk of serious liver problems.
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially QT prolongation.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, dizziness, trouble sleeping, or stomach upset may occur.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: swelling hands/ankles/feet, signs of infection (such as fever, chills), unusual tiredness, weakness, muscle cramps, mental/mood changes, easy bruising/bleeding, vaginal bleeding, shortness of breath, increased thirst/urination.
• Fast/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting.
• Posaconazole has rarely caused very serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver disease, such as: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.
• Any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
• Posaconazole can commonly cause a mild rash that is usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction. Get medical help right away if you develop any rash.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if your next dose is due in less than 12 hours. Do not use two doses at one time.

Q: What should I avoid while using Noxafil?

A: Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.