PFIZER'S ANTIFUNGAL DRUG APPROVED FOR NEW INDICATIONS

The FDA has approved Pfizer's Vfend as a treatment for deep-tissue skin infections, as well as infections in the abdomen, kidney, bladder wall and wounds. Vfend (voriconazole; IV for injection, tablets and oral suspension) also was cleared by the agency as a therapy for candidemia in patients without low white blood cell counts.

The drug already was approved in the U.S. to treat invasive aspergillosis and esophageal candidiasis and to serve as a salvage therapy for fungal infections caused by Scedosporium apiospermum and Fusarium species.