Caspofungin
Caspofungin is an echinocandin antifungal medication used to treat serious, potentially life-threatening fungal infections. It is typically reserved for patients with invasive aspergillosis, candidemia, esophageal candidiasis, and empiric treatment of febrile neutropenia when other antifungal therapies are inadequate or contraindicated. This IV medication works by targeting the fungal cell wall, making it effective against a range of pathogenic yeasts and molds.
Caspofungin is an IV echinocandin antifungal used to treat serious invasive fungal infections like aspergillosis and candidemia in patients who don't respond to or can't take other antifungals.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J02AX04
- RxNorm
- 140108
- Generic
- Caspofungin
- Class
- atc-j02
- Brands
- Cancidas
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats invasive aspergillosis (including refractory cases), candidemia, esophageal candidiasis, and is used as empiric antifungal therapy for persistent fever in neutropenic patients. Often chosen when amphotericin B or azoles are inappropriate.
As an echinocandin, caspofungin inhibits β-(1,3)-D-glucan synthesis, a critical component of the fungal cell wall. This weakens the cell wall, causing osmotic instability and fungal cell death. It has activity against Candida and Aspergillus species.
Administered by slow IV infusion only. Monitor liver function tests during treatment as hepatotoxicity may occur. Use with caution in patients with liver impairment (dose reduction may be needed). May cause histamine-related infusion reactions. Not recommended for children under 3 months. Drug interactions include cyclosporine (increases caspofungin levels) and certain anticonvulsants.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy