What Doctors Don't Tell YouOral and intravenous forms of the antifungal itraconazole (Sporanox) have been found to lead to an increased risk of congestive heart failure.
A review of adverse event reports between September 1992, when the drug was introduced, and April 2001 revealed 58 cases suggestive of congestive heart failure with use of the drug (Lancet, 2001; 357: 1766).
Earlier this year, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a public health advisory regarding both itraconazole and another antifungal, terbinafine (Lamisil), to alert physicians and patients to the “small but real” risk of developing congestive heart failure while using the oral forms of these drugs to treat fungal nail infections. Serious liver problems have also been noted with these products (medscape.com).
Daniel Redwood DC
Tom Ferguson MD
