title: A randomized, double-blind comparison of itraconazole oral solution and fluconazole tablets in the treatment of esophageal candidiasis.
abstract: This multicenter, randomized, double-blind study compared the efficacy and safety of itraconazole oral solution and fluconazole tablets in the treatment of esophageal candidiasis. One hundred twenty-six immunocompromised patients with esophageal candidiasis were treated with itraconazole oral solution or fluconazole tablets (both at 100-200 mg) once daily for 3-8 weeks, for 2 weeks beyond the resolution of symptoms, and were then followed for 4 more weeks. Severity of symptoms was assessed weekly during treatment and every 2 weeks during follow-up. Patients treated with itraconazole oral solution had a rate of clinical response (cured or improved) comparable to that of patients treated with fluconazole (94% vs. 91%). The mycologic eradication rate was 92% for itraconazole and 78% for fluconazole. Both treatments were well tolerated. Results from treatment with once-daily itraconazole oral solution was clinically comparable to those with fluconazole and is an alternative for the treatment of esophageal candidiasis in immunocompromised patients.
authors.affiliation: University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35294-0007, USA.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Wilcox
authors.forename: R O
authors.initials: RO
authors.lastname: Darouiche
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Laine
authors.forename: B L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Moskovitz
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Mallegol
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Wu
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002177:Candidiasis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D015725:Fluconazole / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D017964:Itraconazole / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012008:Recurrence; D012996:Solutions; D013607:Tablets
chemical_list: D000935:Antifungal Agents; D012996:Solutions; D013607:Tablets; D017964:Itraconazole; D015725:Fluconazole