WARNING

While Onmel (itraconazole) is generally safe and effective when used as prescribed, there are certain risks associated with its use. It’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Here are some potential risks of taking Onmel:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to itraconazole. Allergic reactions can manifest as hives, itching, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
• Liver problems: Onmel may cause liver damage in rare cases. Symptoms of liver problems include persistent nausea, vomiting, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), abdominal pain, or unexplained fatigue. Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be recommended during treatment.
• Heart-related risks: Onmel has been associated with rare cases of heart rhythm abnormalities, including QT prolongation. This can potentially lead to a serious irregular heartbeat (ventricular arrhythmia). Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart disease, arrhythmias, or if you are taking any medications that may increase the risk of QT prolongation.
• Drug interactions: Onmel may interact with other medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting Onmel.
• Gastrointestinal effects: Common side effects of Onmel include stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. These effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. Taking the medication with food may help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Other side effects: Onmel may also cause headache, dizziness, skin rash, muscle or joint pain, or changes in taste sensation. If you experience any concerning or persistent side effects, inform your healthcare provider.

It’s important to note that the above list does not include all possible risks and side effects associated with Onmel. Each individual may react differently to the medication, and it’s essential to discuss your medical history and any specific concerns with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can provide you with personalized information and guidance based on your situation.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Onmel is a brand name for the generic drug itraconazole. Itraconazole is an antifungal medication that is primarily prescribed to treat certain fungal infections. It is commonly used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails, a condition known as onychomycosis.

Onmel works by inhibiting the growth of fungi, preventing them from multiplying and causing further infection. It is effective against a variety of fungal organisms, including dermatophytes and yeasts.

How should this medicine be used?

The specific instructions for using Onmel (itraconazole) may vary depending on the individual and the nature of the infection being treated. It is usually taken orally in the form of capsules or tablets. The medication is generally taken once or twice daily with food, as the absorption of itraconazole is improved when taken with a meal.

It is important to follow the instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare professional or the information on the medication label. The dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by the healthcare provider based on factors such as the type and severity of the infection.

It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if the symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication prematurely may result in incomplete eradication of the fungal infection and increase the risk of recurrence.

If you have been prescribed Onmel (itraconazole) or have any specific questions about its use, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to treating fungal nail infections, Onmel (itraconazole) may also be prescribed for other fungal infections, such as:

• Systemic fungal infections: Onmel can be used to treat certain systemic fungal infections, including aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, and sporotrichosis. These infections may affect organs and tissues throughout the body.
• Vaginal yeast infections: Onmel may be used in certain cases to treat recurrent or severe vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida species.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Onmel, it is important to follow certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use:

• Medical history: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any liver disease, heart problems, kidney disease, or other underlying conditions. This information will help determine if Onmel is suitable for you.
• Drug interactions: Onmel can interact with certain medications, including some commonly used medications such as certain antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, calcium channel blockers, and certain psychiatric medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Onmel should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Liver function monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be recommended during treatment with Onmel. If you experience any symptoms of liver problems, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or jaundice, inform your healthcare provider immediately.
• Heart monitoring: In some cases, cardiac monitoring, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), may be recommended before starting Onmel, especially if you have a history of heart disease or are taking other medications that may affect heart rhythm.
• Alcohol consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Onmel, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.

These precautions are not exhaustive, and it’s important to discuss any specific concerns or questions you have with your healthcare provider before starting Onmel. They will provide you with personalized advice and guidance based on your medical history and individual needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

When taking Onmel (itraconazole), there are no specific dietary restrictions that need to be followed. However, it is generally recommended to take Onmel capsules or tablets with a meal or a full glass of water to improve absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Taking the medication with food can also help minimize stomach upset.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you happen to forget a dose of Onmel, here’s what you should do:

• Skip the missed dose and take your next dose as planned. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, and then continue with your regular dosing schedule. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, it is advisable to skip the missed dose and resume with the next one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Onmel (itraconazole) can cause several side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Onmel may include:

• Gastrointestinal effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and indigestion are common side effects. Taking the medication with food can help reduce these gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Onmel.
• Skin reactions: Onmel can rarely cause skin reactions such as rash, itching, and hives. If you experience any skin-related symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.
• Muscle and joint pain: Some people may experience muscle or joint pain while taking Onmel.
• Changes in taste sensation: Onmel can cause alterations in taste, including a metallic taste in the mouth.
• Dizziness: Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur in some individuals.

It’s important to note that these are not all the possible side effects of Onmel. There may be other side effects that are less common but more severe. If you experience any concerning or persistent side effects while taking Onmel, it is recommended to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Additionally, some individuals may experience serious allergic reactions or rare but potentially severe side effects, such as liver problems or heart rhythm abnormalities. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, persistent nausea, vomiting, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or irregular heartbeat.

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

• Storage: Store Onmel at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Follow any specific storage instructions mentioned on the packaging.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Onmel in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Onmel if it has expired. Expired medication may not be effective and could potentially be harmful.
• Disposal: When it comes to disposing of Onmel, it is recommended to follow local regulations and guidelines. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult your pharmacist or local waste management authority for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact your local emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. It is helpful to carry the medication packaging or provide information about the medication to healthcare professionals in case of an emergency.

What other information should I know?

Here are some additional important points to keep in mind:

• Follow instructions: Take Onmel exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or duration of treatment without consulting them.
• Inform your healthcare provider: Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking before starting Onmel. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal products.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend follow-up appointments as recommended by your healthcare provider. They may want to monitor your progress and check for any potential side effects or complications.
• Avoid alcohol: It is generally advisable to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Onmel, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.
• Drug interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal products.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any specific questions or concerns about storage, disposal, emergencies, or any other aspect of Onmel. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your individual circumstances.