Micafungin (Injection)

Introduction:

Micafungin (mye-ka-FUN-jin)

Treats an infection caused by a fungus called Candida, such as candidemia, acute disseminated candidiasis, peritonitis or abscess, and esophageal candidiasis. Also prevents Candida infection in people undergoing stem cell transplant.

Brand Name(s):

Mycamine

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• This medicine is given slowly, so the needle will have to remain in place for at least 1 hour.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using sirolimus (Rapamune®), nifedipine (Adalat®, Procardia®), or itraconazole (Sporanox®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or blood disorder.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash.
• Change in how much or how often you urinate.
• Dry mouth, increased thirst, or muscle cramps.
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
• Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body.
• Pain in your lower leg (calf).
• Seizures or tremors.
• Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising, or pale skin.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.
• Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Anxiety or trouble sleeping.
• Confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior.
• Headache, joint pain.
• Mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, or upset stomach.
• Mild skin rash, redness, or itching.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: