Inhibits synthesis of 1,3-beta-D-glucan, an essential fungal cell wall component not found in mammalian cells. Fungicidal against Candida and fungistatic against Aspergillus. No cross-resistance with azoles or polyenes.
At a glance
Class
Echinocandin Antifungal
Storage
Refrigerate powder 2–8°C; reconstituted use within 24h
Dosing
Used for invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis refractory to azoles
Safety
Hepatic enzymesSerum potassiumInfusion siteCulture response
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Caspofungin?
Caspofungin is a echinocandin antifungal used in pets. Inhibits synthesis of 1,3-beta-D-glucan, an essential fungal cell wall component not found in mammalian cells. Fungicidal against Candida and fungistatic against Aspergillus. No cross-resistance with azoles or polyenes.
›What is Caspofungin used for in pets?
Caspofungin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis refractory to azoles; Limited feline data.
›What is the Caspofungin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Caspofungin is typically dosed as follows — Used for invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis refractory to azoles: 1 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Caspofungin dose for cats?
For cats, Caspofungin is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data: 1 mg/kg IV q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Caspofungin need a prescription?
Yes. Caspofungin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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