Eraxis (anidulafungin) is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.
Eraxis treats candida (yeast) infections in the blood, or in the stomach or esophagus.
Eraxis may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Use Eraxis for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Eraxis will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
Before using Eraxis, tell your doctor if you have liver disease.
Before using this medicine
You should not use Eraxis if you are allergic to anidulafungin, caspofungin (Cancidas), micafungin (Mycamine), or similar antifungal medicines.
To make sure you can safely use Eraxis, tell your doctor if you have liver disease.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Eraxis will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
It is not known whether anidulafungin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How is Eraxis given?
Use Eraxis exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Eraxis is injected into a vein through an IV. You may be shown how to use an IV at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles, IV tubing, and other items used to inject the medicine.
Eraxis is a powder medicine that must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. You will then need to dilute this mixture into a solution with another liquid in an IV bag. If you are using the injections at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine.
Eraxis is sometimes given for up to 14 days after lab tests show that the infection has cleared. Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. This medicine will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
Use a disposable needle and syringe only once. Follow any state or local laws about throwing away used needles and syringes. Use a puncture-proof "sharps" disposal container (ask your pharmacist where to get one and how to throw it away). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.
Store the dry powder medicine in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
After you mix the powder and diluent, you may store the Eraxis mixture at room temperature for up to 24 hours before further diluting it. The final diluted solution may be stored at room temperature for up to 48 hours.
You may also store the diluted solution in a freezer for at least 72 hours before using it.
Do not use Eraxis diluted solution if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medication.
Eraxis dosing information
Usual Adult Dose of Eraxis for Esophageal Candidiasis:
Initial dose: 100 mg IV on Day 1
Maintenance dose: 50 mg IV once a day thereafter
Duration: Treatment should be given for a minimum of 14 days and for at least 7 days following resolution of symptoms. Treatment duration should be based on the patient"s clinical response. If the patient is infected with HIV, suppressive antifungal therapy may be considered after a course of treatment to minimize the risk of relapse.
Usual Adult Dose of Eraxis for Candidemia:
Candidemia and other Candida infections (intraabdominal abscess and peritonitis):
Initial dose: 200 mg IV on Day 1
Maintenance dose: 100 mg IV once a day thereafter
Duration: Duration of treatment should be based on the patient"s clinical response. In general, antifungal th
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Eraxis?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Eraxis side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Eraxis: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Some side effects may occur during the injection. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, sweaty, or if you have chest tightness or trouble breathing.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
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a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
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trouble breathing;
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pain or burning when you urinate;
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liver problems - nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
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low potassium - confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling; or
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low red blood cells (anemia) - pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating.
Common Eraxis side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Eraxis?
Other drugs may interact with Eraxis, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
