Modified Release Posaconazole in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis

Use of antifungals has increased in people with cystic fibrosis. Aspergillus is the dominant fungal pathogen in this patient population and thus far, voriconazole has been used first line. Apart from recurrent and chronic lung infections, people with cystic fibrosis can also have problems with their gastrointestinal tract and absorption, and can develop chronic liver disease. As a consequence, they are at high-risk for not achieving adequate antifungal levels, which may be due to altered oral bioavailability, and they may be more susceptible to hepatic toxicities.

This study will evaluate the use of the newer modified release, once daily formulation of posaconazole in people with cystic fibrosis to identify if there is any difference in the bioavailability of the drug due to the effect of cystic fibrosis on the gastrointestinal tract. This newer formulation of once daily posaconazole is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) since March 2015. The newer formulation has the potential to overcome one of the major challenges with antifungals in cystic fibrosis; oral bioavailability. Posaconazole also appears to have reduced hepatotoxicity. This study will focus on the safety and tolerability of the drug, as well as pharmacological and microbiological endpoints.

20 eligible participants will be enrolled and have a

• Pre-treatment sputum will be collected as standard of care.
• Posaconazole serum levels will be taken at days 2, 5 and 7. (Day 5 and 7 as standard of care).
• renal and liver function assessed whilst on treatment as standard of care.
• followed up for 30 days to assess tolerability and monitor for the development of liver toxicity