Fluconazole treats various fungal infections. Dosage depends heavily on the infection’s type and severity; always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Common Uses
- Oral thrush (candidiasis): A typical adult dose is 150mg once daily for 7-14 days.
- Vaginal yeast infections: A single 150mg dose is often sufficient, but your doctor might recommend a longer course.
- Cryptococcal meningitis: Treatment requires a much higher dosage, usually administered intravenously, determined by your physician.
- Coccidioidomycosis: Dosage and duration are highly variable, based on infection severity and patient response.
Important Considerations
Before taking fluconazole, inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, particularly liver or kidney problems. Pregnancy and breastfeeding also require careful consideration. Fluconazole can interact with certain medications, notably those metabolized by the liver, like warfarin or certain statins. Discuss potential drug interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Less frequent, but more serious, side effects include liver damage and serious allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms.
Alternatives and Interactions
- Alternative antifungal medications: Your doctor might consider other antifungals if you’re allergic to fluconazole or have an ineffective response.
- Drug interactions: Several medications can interact negatively with fluconazole, altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Always list all your current medications for your doctor.
Dosage and Administration
Never adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor. Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible, unless close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double up on doses. Follow your doctor’s prescribed regimen diligently.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional for any questions about your health or treatment.
Storage
Store fluconazole as directed on the label, usually at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Potential Side Effects and Drug Interactions
Fluconazole, while generally safe, can cause side effects. Common ones include headache, nausea, and diarrhea. Less frequent, but still possible, are abdominal pain, vomiting, and skin rash. Severe reactions are rare but include liver damage and serious allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention. Always contact your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms.
Liver Function
Fluconazole can affect liver function. Regular blood tests might be recommended, especially for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking other medications that can harm the liver. Inform your doctor about your complete medical history, including any liver problems.
Drug Interactions
Fluconazole interacts with several medications. This includes certain statins (used to lower cholesterol), some anticoagulants (blood thinners like warfarin), and several anti-seizure medications. Concurrent use can alter the effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects of these drugs. It’s critical to provide your doctor with a full list of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking to avoid potentially dangerous interactions. Your doctor will assess potential risks and adjust dosages if necessary.
Specific Medications
Specifically, concurrent use with terfenadine, cisapride, pimozide, astemizole, or quinidine is contraindicated due to a significantly increased risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Be sure to discuss all prescribed and over-the-counter medications with your physician before starting Fluconazole.
