Why is this medication prescribed?

Fluconazole injection is typically prescribed to treat serious fungal infections, such as candidemia (a fungal infection in the bloodstream), disseminated candidiasis (a widespread fungal infection), cryptococcal meningitis (a fungal infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), and other invasive fungal infections in patients who have a weakened immune system due to conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, or undergoing organ transplantation.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosage and administration of fluconazole injection can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the patient’s health status, and other factors. It’s usually administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinical setting.

Typically, the dosage is based on the severity of the infection, the patient’s weight, and their kidney function. The injection is slowly infused into a vein over a period of time prescribed by the doctor, usually over 30 to 60 minutes.

It’s crucial to follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider precisely and to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better. This helps ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and reduces the risk of recurrence or developing resistance to the medication.

As with any medication, it’s important to discuss any questions or concerns about fluconazole injection with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical history and condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Fluconazole injection may also be used for other off-label purposes, as determined by healthcare providers. These may include treating certain types of fungal infections that are not responsive to other antifungal medications or as prophylaxis to prevent fungal infections in certain high-risk patient populations, such as those undergoing bone marrow transplantation or abdominal surgery.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when using fluconazole injection:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to fluconazole or any other medications. Allergic reactions to fluconazole are rare but can occur.
• Medical History: Disclose your complete medical history, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, or any other underlying health conditions. Fluconazole may need dosage adjustments or careful monitoring in these cases.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of fluconazole during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established, and your healthcare provider will weigh the potential risks and benefits before prescribing it.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as fluconazole can interact with certain drugs. This includes over-the-counter medications and supplements.
• Liver Function: Fluconazole can affect liver function, particularly in high doses or with prolonged use. Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function tests regularly while you are receiving fluconazole treatment.
• Kidney Function: Since fluconazole is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with impaired kidney function to prevent the accumulation of the drug and potential toxicity.
• Candida krusei Infections: Fluconazole may be less effective against Candida krusei infections compared to other Candida species. Your healthcare provider may consider alternative treatment options for these infections.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Rarely, fluconazole can cause central nervous system side effects such as dizziness, seizures, or hallucinations. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and do not hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have about fluconazole injection or its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for fluconazole injection, there aren’t specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet to support your overall health and immune function, especially if you’re being treated for a fungal infection.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of fluconazole injection, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. They can advise you on whether to take the missed dose or adjust your dosing schedule. It’s essential not to double up on doses unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Consistent adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule helps ensure the effectiveness of treatment and reduces the risk of complications.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fluconazole injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are relatively common but usually mild and transient.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking fluconazole.
• Abdominal pain or discomfort: This can occur as a gastrointestinal side effect.
• Diarrhea: Some patients may experience diarrhea as a side effect of fluconazole.
• Rash or skin irritation: Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or redness may occur in some individuals.
• Elevations in liver enzymes: Fluconazole can affect liver function, leading to temporary increases in liver enzyme levels. This is usually reversible upon discontinuation of the medication.
• Changes in taste sensation: Some people may notice alterations in taste while taking fluconazole.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: This can occur, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Hair loss: Rarely, fluconazole may cause temporary hair loss, known as alopecia.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Allergic reactions to fluconazole are rare but can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Severe skin reactions: In rare cases, fluconazole can cause severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. These are serious and potentially life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention.
• Liver toxicity: In rare cases, fluconazole can cause severe liver damage. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, persistent nausea or vomiting, or abdominal pain.

It’s essential to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can evaluate your symptoms and adjust your treatment regimen if necessary. Additionally, if you have any concerns about potential side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting fluconazole treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Fluconazole injection:

Storage:

• Store fluconazole injection at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.
• Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired fluconazole injection properly.
• Do not flush the medication down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so.
• Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to dispose of the medication safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center (in the United States, call 1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or irregular heartbeat.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider while receiving fluconazole injection.
• Your healthcare provider may order periodic blood tests to monitor your response to the medication and check for any adverse effects.
• Do not share fluconazole injection with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions.
• Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Stopping the medication prematurely can allow the infection to return or worsen.
• Inform any healthcare provider who treats you of all the medications you are taking, including fluconazole injection, to avoid potential drug interactions.
• If you have any questions or concerns about fluconazole injection or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure the safe and effective use of fluconazole injection and minimize the risk of adverse effects or complications.