Noxafil 100 mg Gastro-resistant Tablets

Noxafil (posaconazole) is an antifungal medication used to prevent and treat fungal infections. It belongs to a class of drugs known as azole antifungals. Noxafil is particularly effective against a range of fungal pathogens, including those that may not respond to other antifungal treatments.

How It Works

Noxafil contains the active ingredient posaconazole, which works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. Ergosterol is essential for maintaining the integrity and function of the fungal cell membrane. By disrupting its synthesis, posaconazole impairs the growth and replication of the fungus, leading to the eventual death of the fungal cells.

Mechanism of Action:

1. Inhibition of Ergosterol Synthesis: Posaconazole inhibits the enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase, which is critical in the biosynthesis of ergosterol.
2. Disruption of Fungal Cell Membrane: With reduced ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes unstable and permeable, compromising its function.
3. Fungal Cell Death: The compromised cell membrane leads to cell death and the resolution of the fungal infection.

Side Effects

Noxafil is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may experience side effects. These can vary from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea: Some patients may experience nausea or an upset stomach.
• Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea, are common.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Toxicity: Elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis can occur. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, may require immediate medical attention.
• QT Prolongation: Prolongation of the QT interval, which can lead to serious heart rhythm disturbances, may be observed.

Indications

Noxafil is indicated for the prevention and treatment of various fungal infections, particularly in patients who are at high risk of such infections.

Approved Indications:

1. Prevention of Fungal Infections: For the prevention of invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with certain types of leukemia.
2. Treatment of Fungal Infections: For the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis, among other serious fungal infections.
3. Prophylaxis in High-Risk Patients: For patients with hematologic malignancies or who have undergone stem cell transplantation.

Contraindications

Certain conditions and medications may contraindicate the use of Noxafil due to potential interactions or risks.

Contraindications:

1. Hypersensitivity to Posaconazole: Known allergy to posaconazole or any other component of the tablet.
2. Severe Liver Impairment: Patients with severe hepatic impairment should avoid Noxafil due to the risk of increased drug levels and toxicity.
3. Concurrent Use of Certain Medications: Co-administration with drugs that significantly affect posaconazole metabolism, such as certain antiepileptics and rifampin, should be avoided.

Price in Different Countries

The cost of Noxafil 100 mg Gastro-resistant Tablets varies by country and is influenced by local pricing and regulations. The following table provides approximate prices in different regions with references for further information.

Country	Price (Per Pack of 30 Tablets)	Reference
United States	$3,000 – $3,500	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£2,500 – £3,000	NHS
Australia	AUD $4,000 – $4,500	PBS Australia
India	INR ₹80,000 – ₹90,000	1MG
Canada	CAD $3,500 – $4,000	Canada Pharmacy

Top 5 Global Brands

While Noxafil (posaconazole) is a proprietary product developed by Merck & Co., other companies produce similar antifungal medications or related treatments.

1. Merck & Co.

• The original manufacturer of Noxafil, known for its comprehensive research and development in antifungal therapies.

2. Pfizer

• Known for its antifungal medication Vfend (voriconazole), another azole antifungal with similar indications.

3. Astellas Pharma

• Manufacturer of Cresemba (isavuconazole), a newer azole antifungal used for invasive fungal infections.

4. Gilead Sciences

• Produces AmBisome (liposomal amphotericin B), an antifungal used for treating severe fungal infections.

5. Bristol-Myers Squibb

• Known for its antifungal agent, Itraconazole, marketed under various brand names.