Master Echinocandins with Picmonic for Medicine

Echinocandins are used empirically in patients with invasive aspergillosis. These medications can also be used in patients with refractory infections or who are intolerant of other medications, such as amphotericin B or itraconazole.

This drug class is approved for use against invasive candidiasis as well, with specific indications for intra-abdominal abscesses, peritonitis, pleural cavity infections, and esophagitis.

This drug class makes fungi susceptible to destruction by inhibiting cell wall synthesis, thus decreasing fungal cell wall integrity.

This drug class inhibits the enzyme that makes Beta-glucan, which is an integral part of fungal cell walls.

This drug class has a very low incidence of side effects, but patients have been known to complain of GI upset and distress.

Patients can complain of flushing or hypersensitivity reactions, as echinocandins can promote histamine release.