Why is this medication prescribed?

Fluconazole is an antifungal medication commonly prescribed to treat various fungal infections. It works by stopping the growth of fungi. Here’s why it’s prescribed and how it should be used:

• Fungal Infections: Fluconazole is used to treat a variety of fungal infections, including yeast infections of the mouth, throat, esophagus (food pipe), lungs, bladder, genital area, and blood. It’s also effective against certain fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot.
• Prevention of Fungal Infections: In certain cases, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or transplant recipients), fluconazole might be prescribed to prevent fungal infections from developing.

How should this medicine be used?

fluconazole is typically used as directed by a healthcare professional. However, here are general guidelines for its usage:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always use fluconazole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your doctor first.
• Dosage Forms: Fluconazole is available in tablet form and as a suspension (liquid). The dosage and frequency of use will depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated.
• Tablets: Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. You can take it with or without food.
• Suspension (Liquid): Shake the suspension well before each use to ensure proper mixing. Use a measuring spoon or medicine cup to measure the correct dose. If you don’t have a measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
• Dosage: The dosage and duration of treatment will vary depending on the specific infection being treated. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve before the infection is completely cleared.
• Take on Schedule: Try to take fluconazole at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body and maximize its effectiveness.
• Keep Taking It: Even if you start to feel better, continue taking fluconazole for the full prescribed length of time. Stopping too soon may allow the infection to return or worsen.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Storage: Store fluconazole tablets and suspension at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance on the use of fluconazole, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the nature of your condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses of Fluconazole may include:

• Treatment of fungal nail infections (onychomycosis)
• Prevention of fungal infections in certain surgical procedures
• Treatment of fungal meningitis
• Management of fungal infections in critically ill patients

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Fluconazole:

• Allergies: Before taking fluconazole, inform your doctor if you have any allergies to fluconazole or other antifungal medications. Also, let them know about any other allergies you have, as fluconazole may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart rhythm problems (such as QT prolongation), or a history of irregular heartbeats.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Fluconazole may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks of using fluconazole during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Certain medications may interact with fluconazole, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking, especially blood thinners, certain antidepressants, and medications that affect liver enzymes.
• Liver Function Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your liver function while you are taking fluconazole, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions or are taking other medications that can affect liver function.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of fluconazole, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and rash. Contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms while taking fluconazole.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking fluconazole, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when taking fluconazole to ensure safe and effective use. If you have any concerns or questions about its use, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with fluconazole. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking any medication, including fluconazole, to support overall health and help your body fight off infections.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of fluconazole, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fluconazole, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of fluconazole include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are relatively common, especially when starting fluconazole treatment, but they usually subside with continued use.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking fluconazole.
• Abdominal pain: This can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain.
• Diarrhea: Changes in bowel movements, including diarrhea, may occur.
• Rash: Some individuals may develop a skin rash or itching while taking fluconazole.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, fluconazole can cause liver problems, including abnormal liver function tests and hepatitis.
• Allergic reactions: While uncommon, allergic reactions to fluconazole can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness.
• Changes in taste: Some people may notice a change in taste perception while taking fluconazole.
• Dizziness: Fluconazole can cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a possible side effect of fluconazole.
• Hair loss: Rarely, fluconazole may cause hair loss or thinning.
• QT prolongation: Fluconazole can affect the heart’s electrical activity, potentially leading to a condition called QT prolongation, which may cause irregular heartbeats.
• Reduced white blood cell count: In rare cases, fluconazole may cause a decrease in white blood cell count, which can weaken the immune system.

If you experience any of these side effects while taking fluconazole, especially if they are severe or persistent, notify your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction or any other serious side effects.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store fluconazole tablets and suspension at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as moisture can degrade the medication.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired fluconazole tablets or suspension properly, following the guidelines provided by your local pharmacy or healthcare provider. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion by children or pets.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Assistance: If you suspect an overdose of fluconazole or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fainting, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptom Management: In cases of overdose, supportive measures may be necessary to manage symptoms. Treatment may include gastric lavage (stomach pumping), administration of activated charcoal to absorb the medication, and symptomatic treatment as appropriate.

What other information should I know?

• Complete the Full Course: It’s important to complete the full course of fluconazole treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve before the infection is completely cleared. Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to the return of the infection or development of resistance to the medication.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and response to fluconazole treatment. Your doctor may conduct tests to ensure the infection has been successfully treated.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, that you are taking fluconazole. This includes disclosing any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are currently using.
• Avoid Sexual Activity: If you are being treated for a genital yeast infection, it’s advisable to avoid sexual activity until the infection has completely cleared to prevent spreading the infection to your partner.
• Limit Sun Exposure: Fluconazole may increase your sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn or rash. Limit exposure to sunlight and UV rays while taking fluconazole, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Keep Medication Out of Reach: Keep fluconazole and all medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Read the Patient Information Leaflet: Review the patient information leaflet provided with your medication for additional instructions, warnings, and precautions specific to fluconazole.

By following these guidelines and communicating openly with your healthcare provider, you can ensure safe and effective use of fluconazole for the treatment of fungal infections. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.