Efficacy of itraconazole solution in a rabbit model of invasive aspergillosis.

The efficacy of an itraconazole-cyclodextrin solution against Aspergillus fumigatus was assessed in an immunosuppressed, temporarily leukopenic rabbit model of invasive aspergillosis and compared with that of amphotericin B. Oral itraconazole solution at dosages of 20 and 40 mg/kg/day improved survival as compared with that of controls. Itraconazole (40 mg/kg/day) not only improved survival and reduced antigen levels but also significantly eradicated A. fumigatus from tissues and was as effective as amphotericin B in these studies. The higher dose of itraconazole produced higher levels in serum, which correlated with improved efficacy of the drug. This itraconazole-cyclodextrin solution was well absorbed and was effective in the treatment of experimental invasive aspergillosis; it demonstrates the potential of this class of agents in improving therapy for invasive aspergillosis.