Diflucan

DIFLUCAN DRUG INFO

FLUCONAZOLE - ORAL (flew-CON-uh-zole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Diflucan

Uses:

This medication is an antifungal agent used to treat yeast infections in certain areas of the body. It is an antifungal medication that kills yeast and yeast-like organisms.

How to Use:

This medication comes as in a pill form and it generally taken once daily, or one week per month until the treatment is complete. It works best when taken in evenly spaced intervals. This medication works differently for different conditions, so it is important to take it exactly as your doctor prescribes. Continue taking this medication until the treatment is complete, even if you begin to feel better in just a few days; stopping this medication to early may allow the yeast to continue to grow resulting in the infection returning. Always follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Take exactly as directed, and never take more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Side Effects:

The most common side effects while taking this medication are: stomach upset, loss of appetite, altered taste, diarrhea, nausea, headache or dizziness during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience a rare allergic reaction to this medication. The symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. While side effects are uncommon if you experience any side effect that has not been mentioned, contact your local pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Precautions:

It is important to tell your doctor your entire medical history, including having a history of: liver disease, kidney disease, any drug allergies. Always inform your doctor of the medications you are taking including all prescription, non-prescription drugs, and vitamins. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding need to consult their doctor about all of the risks and benefits of this medication. It is important to tell you doctor if you become pregnant while using this medication.

Drug Interactions:

It is important to always notify your physician of all prescription and nonprescription drugs that you may be taking, especially: stemizole, cisapride, cimetidine, oral contraceptives, cyclosporine, oral antidiabetic drugs, hydrochlorothiazide, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, certain benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, triazolam), tacrolimus, terfenadine, theophylline, warfarin, and zidovudine. Never start or stop the use of any medication with consulting your doctor or pharmacist for approval.

Overdose:

In the event that an overdose is suspected contact your local emergency room or poison control center immediately. The symptoms of an overdose include: hallucinations and change in behavior.

Notes:

Never share any prescription medication with others. This medication is only prescribed for your current condition, it is important not to use this medication for a later infection, because a different medication may be needed.

Missed Dose:

In the event that you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember before it is close to the next dose, then simply skip it and resume taking as scheduled. It is important never to “double-up” on this medication.

Storage:

This medication needs to be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight and moisture. The best temperature should be around 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Important Note:

This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.