Fungal chemoprophylaxis with fluconazole in preterm infants.
BACKGROUND
To describe the establishment of a fungal chemoprophylaxis protocol in very low birth weight infants (VLBW). To asses safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of fluconazole administration to these patients.


METHODS
According to published scientific evidence (search on MEDLINE 1994-2001) inclusion criteria for the protocol were defined: gestational age <28 weeks and birth weight <1500 g. Fluconazole was given intravenously by infusion. A pharmacotherapeutic follow-up of patients included on the protocol was performed for 1 year.


RESULTS
Sixteen patients were included on the protocol, two of them died because of causes not related to the drugs given. Significant drug interactions were not observed. Fluconazole side effects were not reported either. None of the patients who finished the chemoprophylaxis showed signs or symptoms of fungal infection.


CONCLUSIONS
Fluconazole chemoprophylaxis in this small number of patients has shown an excellent safety and tolerability profile. The lack of fungal infection points out the possibility of using fluconazole to reduce morbidity and mortality in VLBW.
Martínez Sesmero
José Manuel
JM
Department of Pharmacy, Getafe University Hospital Ctra., de Toledo km 12,500, 28905, Getafe, Madrid, Spain. mano24@ono.com
Farfán Sedano
Francisco José
FJ
Molina García
Teresa
T
Brussi
Marta Muro
MM
Sánchez-Rubio Ferrández
Javier
J
Díez Fernández
Raúl
R
Montojo Guillén
Cristóbal
C
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D015725:Fluconazole / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D009181:Mycoses / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011292:Premedication; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D015725:Fluconazole