Posaconazole
Posaconazole is a triazole antifungal medication that works by disrupting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, thereby inhibiting fungal growth. It is primarily used for prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in severely immunocompromised patients and for treating oral thrush.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage varies significantly based on the indication, formulation used, and patient age or weight. Note that Posaconazole delayed-release tablets and oral suspension are NOT interchangeable due to differences in bioavailability. Tablets should be swallowed whole, and both oral formulations are ideally taken with a meal or nutritional supplement.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients in this weight and age range.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Specialist determination
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established. Requires specialist pediatric infectious disease consultation.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Based on Body Surface Area (BSA)
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily as prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Indicated only for pediatric patients aged 2 years and older. Dosage must be calculated using Body Surface Area (BSA).
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Based on Body Surface Area (BSA)
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily as prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Typically dosed at 300 mg/day (tablets) or based on BSA for oral suspension in pediatric patients >= 2 years old.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Based on Body Surface Area (BSA)
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily as prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Dosage is highly dependent on formulation, age, and clinical indication. Always verify with a healthcare provider.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients in this weight and age range. |
| 5-7 kg | Not routine / Specialist determination | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy have not been established. Requires specialist pediatric infectious disease consultation. |
| 8-10 kg | Based on Body Surface Area (BSA) | Once or twice daily as prescribed | Indicated only for pediatric patients aged 2 years and older. Dosage must be calculated using Body Surface Area (BSA). |
| 11-15 kg | Based on Body Surface Area (BSA) | Once or twice daily as prescribed | Typically dosed at 300 mg/day (tablets) or based on BSA for oral suspension in pediatric patients >= 2 years old. |
| 16-20 kg | Based on Body Surface Area (BSA) | Once or twice daily as prescribed | Dosage is highly dependent on formulation, age, and clinical indication. Always verify with a healthcare provider. |
Formulation
Purpose
Prevention and treatment of invasive fungal infections (such as Aspergillus and Candida) in immunocompromised patients, and treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis (thrush).
Generic Name
PosaconazoleBranded Drug Names
Posaconazole is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.