Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Caspofungin requires a valid prescription.
Caspofungin
Generic Name: CASPOFUNGIN ACETATE
Caspofungin acetate for injection is a sterile, lyophilized product for intravenous (IV) infusion that contains a semisynthetic lipopeptide (echinocandin) compound synthesized from a fermentation product of Glarea lozoyensis.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Caspofungin Used For?
- Candidemia and the following candida infections: intra-abdominal abscesses
- Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC)
How Does It Work?
Distribution, rather than excretion or biotransformation, is the dominant mechanism influencing plasma clearance.
Dosage & Administration
- Important Administration Instructions for All Patients : Administer by slow intravenous (IV) infusion over approximately 1 hour.
- Do not administer by IV bolus administration.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Hypersensitivity : Anaphylaxis, possible histamine-mediated adverse reactions, including rash, facial swelling, angioedema, pruritus, sensation of warmth or bronchospasm, and cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported with use of caspofungin.
- Monitor patients who develop abnormal liver enzymes for evidence of worsening hepatic function, and evaluate risk/benefit of continuing caspofungin. Elevated Liver Enzymes During Concomitant Use with Cyclosporine : Limit use to patients for whom potential benefit outweighs potential risk.
- Monitor patients who develop abnormal liver function tests during caspofungin therapy for evidence of worsening hepatic function and evaluated for risk/benefit of continuing caspofungin therapy. 5.3 Elevated Liver Enzymes During Concomitant Use with Cyclosporine Elevated liver enzymes have occurred in patients receiving caspofungin and cyclosporine concomitantly.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Caspofungin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of this product [see Adverse Reactions ( 6 )].
- Caspofungin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of this product. ( 4 )
Drug Interactions
Caspofungin may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Storage Conditions Store refrigerated between 2° and 8°C (36° and 46°F).
Speak to a dermatologist on Zospital
Consult a dermatologist on Zospital before starting Caspofungin. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Antifungals Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Caspofungin – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Caspofungin, its uses, dosage and safety.
Caspofungin is commonly prescribed in India for: Candidemia and the following candida infections: intra-abdominal abscesses, Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Caspofungin is sold in India under brand names such as Cancidas, Caspofungin Acetate. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Caspofungin is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Caspofungin can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Insomnia. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Anaphylaxis, Hepatotoxicity, Nephrotoxicity, Stevens-johnson. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Distribution, rather than excretion or biotransformation, is the dominant mechanism influencing plasma clearance.
Caspofungin can interact with: Cyclosporine, Caspofungin, Clinical, Rifampin, Administration. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Caspofungin.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Caspofungin for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Caspofungin depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Caspofungin during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Caspofungin's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.