Aminocandin

Summary

Aminocandin (IP960) is a semisynthetic echinocandin antifungal agent derived from a natural lipopeptide. It contains a free amino group on its lipid side chain, distinguishing it from other echinocandins. It demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against Candida and Aspergillus species in preclinical and early clinical studies but development appears to have stalled.

Mechanism of Action

Non-competitive inhibition of 1,3-β-D-glucan synthase, disrupting fungal cell wall synthesis by reducing glucan polymer formation, leading to osmotic instability and fungal cell death

Routes of Administration

Goals & Uses

• Treatment of invasive aspergillosisAntifungalLow
• Treatment of invasive candidiasisAntifungalModerate
• Treatment of Pneumocystis pneumoniaAntifungalLow

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to echinocandinsAllergyHigh

Adverse Effects

• HeadacheNeurologicCommonPain in the head or upper neck
• NauseaGastrointestinalCommonFeeling of sickness or urge to vomit
• Elevated liver enzymesHepaticUncommonIncrease in AST/ALT or other hepatic markers
• Infusion-related reactionsHypersensitivityUncommon

Drug Interactions

• CyclosporineModerate
• TacrolimusLow

Population Constraints

• PregnancyReproductive SafetyRelative
• Hepatic impairmentOrgan FunctionRelative
• Pediatric patientsAgeRelative

Regulatory Status

• European UnionInvestigationalInvestigated under EMA oversight; no marketing authorization granted
• United StatesInvestigationalEntered Phase II trials; development discontinued, no FDA approval
• United KingdomUnknownNo MHRA approval; status post-Brexit unclear but presumed unapproved

Never received regulatory approval in any major jurisdiction. Phase II clinical trials were conducted but development was discontinued. Not approved by FDA, EMA, or MHRA.

Evidence & Sources

No sources recorded yet.