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Long-term use of systemic azole antifungals can result in hepatotoxicity and other serious adverse effects

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Abstract

Long-term use of systemic azole antifungals (i.e. fluconazole, isavuconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole and voriconazole) can result in serious adverse drug effects (ADEs), such as hepatotoxicity and cardiac effects. Cytochrome P450 inhibition by azoles contributes to many ADEs, such as adrenal insufficiency due to hormone disruption, while pharmacokinetic interactions can lead to myositis or peripheral neuropathy. Other notable ADEs include pancreatitis, bone pain, renal failure, skin cancer and Stevens-Johnsons syndrome. ADEs may be managed with monitoring, adjusting dosages and switching azoles.

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The article was adapted from Drugs 2019;79(8):833–53 [12] by employees of Adis International Ltd./Springer Nature, who are responsible for the article content and declare no conflicts of interest.

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The preparation of this review was not supported by any external funding.

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Adis Medical Writers. Long-term use of systemic azole antifungals can result in hepatotoxicity and other serious adverse effects. Drugs Ther Perspect 36, 112–115 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40267-019-00699-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40267-019-00699-5

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