Flucytosine

Drug #310

Flucytosine is antifungal agent. Flucytosine is fluorinated pyrimidine. its spectrum of activity is restricted to some Candida species and the dematiaceous mold. It was discovered in 1957 during a search for novel anticancerous agents. While devoid of anticancer properties, it became apparent that it was a potent antifungal agent. Flucytosine is a water soluble pyrimidine analog that is related to the chemotherapeutic agent fluorouracil. Flucytosine is administered orally.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Flurinated Pyrimidine.

It is classified in Antifungals pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 129.1 · pK_a: 2.9, 10.7 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 67 · Solubility in Alcohol: > 1 in 1000 · Non-proprietary name: Flucytosine.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Flucytosine has an oral bioavailability is 100%, pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 15% (±5%).

Distribution: Flucytosine has a volume of distribution is 0.85 l/kg 0.7-1 L/kg. plasma protein binding is 4%.

Elimination: it is metabolised via <1%, plasma half-life is 3 Range (2.5-6.4 hr), renal excretion is 90%.

Indications

Flucytosine is primarily indicated in conditions like Candidosis, Cryptococcosis, Meningitis, Obsessive-compulsive disorders, Torulopsosis.

Flucytosine is also indicated for secondary conditions like Osteoporosis in men, Suppression of supraventricular tachycardias and ventricular arrhythmias.

Contraindications

None recorded.

Dosage

Flucytosine's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
200 mg/kg	200 mg/kg	Every 6h	IV Inf	For 20-40 Minutes
50 – 150 mg	—	Every 6h	PO
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
1.25 mg/kg.min	1.25 mg/kg.min	Every 6h	IV Infusion	For 30 Minutes
37.5 mg/kg	37.5 mg/kg	Every 6h	Oral	-
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
1.25 mg/kg.min	1.25 mg/kg.min	Every 6h	IV Infusion	For 30 Minutes
37.5 mg/kg	37.5 mg/kg	Every 6h	Oral	-

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions

1 interaction

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Flucytosine in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hypokalemia , Hepatic necrosis , Elevated alkaline phosphatase concentration, Deaths , Elevated transaminases , Disturbed liver function , Elevated alkaline phosphatase concentration.

Flucytosine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Thrombocytopenia , Leucopenia , Bone marrow toxicity, Death. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

Flucytosine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Convulsions , Diarrhea, Headache, Nausea and vomiting, Sedation , Skin rashes.

Warnings / Precautions

Flucytosine should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. It should be used with caution in patients with any pre-existing liver disease, kidney disease, bone marrow disorders or any allergy. Blood count should be mointered during therapy.

Interference in Pathology

Flucytosine may interfere in the diagnosis of Falsely elevated levels of Serum Creatinine by creatinine iminohydrolase method. .

Available Brands

None recorded.

Storage Conditions

Flucytosine should be stored . Caps, Inj.

Drug Classification

1.6.3 — Antifungal drugs