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Antifungal (triazole)

Voriconazole: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Vfend, Voriconazole.

Deze informatie is uitsluitend bedoeld als algemene richtlijn en vormt geen medisch advies. Raadpleeg altijd een gekwalificeerde zorgprofessional voor persoonlijke medische vragen. Bel in geval van nood uw lokale alarmnummer.

What it is used for

  • Invasive aspergillosis
  • Serious Candida infections
  • Other deep or invasive fungal infections
  • Fungal infections in people with weakened immune systems

How it works

Voriconazole blocks an enzyme fungi need to build their cell membrane, stopping growth and killing the fungus. It is a broad-spectrum antifungal used for serious infections, usually under specialist supervision.

How it is taken

Available as tablets, an oral liquid/suspension, and an injection given in hospital. The oral forms are usually taken on an empty stomach, away from meals. Take it exactly as your specialist directs and attend the blood tests they arrange, since dosing is often adjusted based on drug levels and liver function.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Temporary visual disturbances such as blurred vision, brighter light, or colour changes
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Skin rash

Serious effects — get help

  • Signs of liver problems (yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe tiredness)
  • Severe skin reactions, including increased sensitivity to sunlight that can lead to skin damage
  • Heart-rhythm changes (palpitations, fainting)
  • Hallucinations or confusion
  • Severe allergic reaction

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Many medicines interact with voriconazole, including some sedatives, statins, heart drugs, and other antifungals or antivirals
  • Certain medicines must not be combined with it at all
  • Tell your specialist about every medicine, supplement, and herbal product

Who should take care

  • Avoid strong sunlight and use sun protection, as the skin can become very sensitive
  • Tell your doctor about liver problems; liver function is monitored
  • Do not drive if you have visual disturbances
  • Use in pregnancy is generally avoided unless essential
  • Blood-level monitoring may be used to guide dosing

Frequently asked questions

Why does my vision change on voriconazole?
Temporary visual effects like blurring or brighter, altered colours are common and usually settle. Do not drive while affected and tell your specialist if they are troublesome.
Why must I avoid the sun?
Voriconazole can make your skin very sensitive to sunlight, raising the risk of burns and longer-term skin damage. Cover up and use high-factor sun protection.
Should I take it with food?
The oral forms are usually taken on an empty stomach, away from meals. Follow the exact timing your specialist gives you.
Why are blood tests needed?
They check your liver and sometimes the level of drug in your blood, helping the team keep treatment effective and safe and adjust the dose.
Is Voriconazole safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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