Posaconazole is a triazole antifungal agent used to prevent and treat a broad spectrum of invasive fungal infections. It works by inhibiting fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase, an enzyme essential for ergosterol synthesis, which disrupts fungal cell membrane integrity and function. Posaconazole has activity against Candida, Aspergillus, Zygomycetes, and other opportunistic fungi, including strains resistant to other azoles.
It is available as oral suspension, delayed-release tablets, and intravenous infusion.
Indications include:
∙ Prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised patients (e.g., chemotherapy or transplant)
∙ Treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis, especially in patients with HIV
∙ Salvage therapy for invasive aspergillosis or mucormycosis
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Parent: Posaconazole
Impurities in posaconazole result from its complex multi-step chemical synthesis, involving triazole and tetrahydrofuran derivatives, and from degradation due to oxidation, hydrolysis, or photolysis. As it is used in immunocompromised populations and via multiple routes, impurities must comply with ICH Q3A/B, USP/EP, and FDA guidelines.
Types of Impurities in Posaconazole
Process-Related Impurities
Degradation Impurities
Elemental Impurities
Analytical Techniques for Impurity Detection
Posaconazole is used to prevent and treat severe fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised patients (e.g., undergoing chemotherapy or stem cell transplant).
It inhibits lanosterol 14α-demethylase, blocking ergosterol synthesis, which is essential for fungal cell membrane stability.
Yes, but dosage adjustments and careful monitoring are required. It is approved for use in pediatric patients ≥13 years, with ongoing studies in younger populations.
It is light- and moisture-sensitive, especially in oral suspension. Store in a tightly closed container, away from direct light, at controlled room temperature or refrigeration, depending on the formulation.
