Take Fluconazole exactly as prescribed. Don’t adjust the dose or stop taking it early without consulting your doctor.
Common Uses and Dosage
Fluconazole treats various fungal infections. Dosage depends on the infection’s severity and your health. For example, a single 150mg dose might treat vaginal yeast infections, while more prolonged treatment is needed for systemic infections. Your doctor determines the correct dosage and duration.
Oral Administration
Swallow Fluconazole tablets whole with water. Avoid crushing or chewing them. Take it with or without food, but consistency is key. Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding timing.
Intravenous Administration
For severe infections, Fluconazole might be administered intravenously by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. This route ensures rapid absorption and treatment.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, Fluconazole can have side effects. Common ones include nausea, headache, and diarrhea. Less common, but more serious, side effects include liver problems and allergic reactions. Report any concerning symptoms to your doctor immediately.
Serious Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives.
- Liver problems: Symptoms like yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent fatigue require immediate medical evaluation.
- Changes in blood counts: Unusual bleeding or bruising warrants medical assessment.
This information is for guidance only. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Drug Interactions
Fluconazole can interact with other medications, such as certain anticoagulants and some cholesterol-lowering drugs. Provide your doctor with a complete list of your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
Important Considerations
- Inform your doctor about your medical history, including liver or kidney disease, before starting Fluconazole.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Fluconazole, as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
- Fluconazole can affect birth control pills; consider using alternative contraception methods during treatment.
Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Potential Side Effects and Interactions
Fluconazole, while generally safe, can cause side effects. Common ones include headache, nausea, and diarrhea. Less frequent but more serious reactions involve liver problems, indicated by jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) or abdominal pain. Report these symptoms immediately to your doctor.
Certain medications interact negatively with fluconazole. This includes many commonly used drugs like some statins (cholesterol-lowering medication), certain anti-seizure medications, and oral contraceptives. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, before starting fluconazole.
Alcohol consumption should be limited while taking fluconazole, as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Grapefruit juice also interacts, potentially increasing fluconazole’s concentration in your blood, leading to a higher risk of side effects. Avoid it while on this medication.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss fluconazole use with their doctor. The potential risks to the fetus or infant need careful evaluation. Similarly, individuals with pre-existing liver or kidney disease should have close monitoring during treatment.
This information provides a summary; always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice. They can help assess your individual risks and benefits of fluconazole use and provide tailored guidance.
