Flucytosine (Ancotil)

Flucytosine (Ancotil) is one of the older anti-fungal drugs. It is sometimes used alongside amphotericin (Fungilin / Fungizone) for treating severe candidiasis, cryptococcal meningitis or other severe fungal infections. It is also being tested in combination with the newer anti-fungal agents fluconazole (Diflucan) and itraconazole (Sporanox): adding flucytosine to these drugs can improve treatment outcomes in HIV-positive patients.1 2

Side-effects can include nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, rash, elevated liver enzymes, blood disorders, confusion and headache.

Flucytosine does not interact with any currently available protease inhibitors or non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs).

Flucytosine is manufactured by Valeant.

References

  1. Mayanja-KIzza H et al. Combination therapy with fluconazole and flucytosine for cryptococcal meningitis in Ugandan patients with AIDS. Clin Infect Dis 26: 1362-1366, 1998
  2. Larsen RA et al. Fluconazole combined with flucytosine for treatment of cryptococcal meningitis in patients with AIDS. Clin Infect Dis 19: 741-745, 1994

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Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.