Treatment and Developmental Therapeutics in Aspergillosis. 1. Amphotericin B and Its Derivatives

Abstract

In recent years, the frequency of infections caused by Aspergillus sp. has been on the rise. Immunocompromised patients are especially vulnerable to such infections. The polyene antibiotic amphotericin B is currently considered to be therapeutically the most effective drug against Aspergillus-induced infections. In the present review, the clinical efficacy of amphotericin B, its toxicities and various routes of applications, are discussed. Different combinations of amphotericin B with other drugs have also been reviewed, along with the anti-Aspergillus activity of various other antibiotics and some ester derivatives of amphotericin B.