Candicidin A: Full Drug Profile

Candicidin A - General Information

Candicidin A is an antibiotic obtained from a streptomyces (Streptomyces griseus) and active against some fungi of the genus Candida (C. albicans). Candicidin A is administered intravaginally in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Pharmacology of Candicidin A

Candicidin A is a polyene antifungal antibiotic produced by a strain of Streptomyces griseus. It is especially effective against Candida albicans (more effective than amphotericin B), and is administered intravaginally in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Additional information about Candicidin A

Candicidin A Indication

Used in the topical treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Mechanism Of Action

Ergosterol, the principal sterol in the fungal cytoplasmic membrane, is the target site of action of Candicidin A. Candicidin A binds irreversibly to ergosterol, resulting in disruption of membrane integrity and ultimately cell death. There is some evidence that the binding site in the cell wall may be to fatty acids or fatty acid esters and that this binding capacity must be satisfied before candicidin can bring about its lethal effect by binding to sterol in the cell membrane.

Generic Name

Candicidin

Drug Category

Anti-Bacterial Agents; Antifungal Agents

Drug Type

Small Molecule; Approved

Other Brand Names containing Candicidin

Candicidin A; Candicidin D; FR-008-III; Vanobid;

Chemical IUPAC Name

(19E,21E,23E,25E,27E,29E,31E)-33-[(3S,4S,5S,6R)-4-amino-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyloxan-2-yl]oxy-17-[7-(4-aminophenyl)-5-hydroxy-4-methyl-7-oxoheptan-2-yl]-1,3,5,7,37-pentahydroxy-18-methyl-9,13,15-trioxo-16,39-dioxabicyclo[33.3.1]nonatriaconta-19,21,23,25,27,29,31-heptaene-36-carboxylic acid

Chemical Formula

C59H84N2O18

Organisms Affected

Various Fungus Species