What is this molecule and what is fluconazole used for?
Fluconazole is an antifungal agent. It used for the treatment and prevention of infections caused by various types of fungi:
- vaginal candidiasis (thrush),
- balanitis,
- oropharyngeal candidiasis,
- candidal esophagitis,
- candidiasis urinary tract infections,
- cryptococcal meningitis.
The drug is also appoint for the prevention of fungal infection. This applies to people with weakened immune systems, HIV, recurring thrush and those who have had a bone marrow transplant.
The product is available in the form of capsules, solution and suppositories.
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When, where, who and how was fluconazole invented?
Fluconazole was invented by Pfizer. The drug was patented in 1981, and went on sale only in 1988.
In 1993, the drug was approved by the FDA for the treatment of cryptococcal meningitis. Since then, fluconazole has become one of the most widely used antifungal drugs in the world.
How does fluconazole work, does it have an evidence base?
Fluconazole does hole in the cell membrane of the fungus. Because of this, its contents come out. As a result, the fungus dies and the infection recedes.
The effectiveness of the drug in the treatment of various fungal infections has been demonstrated in numerous clinical studies.
What dosage is fluconazole usually used?
The exact dosage and duration of use depend on the problem. Therefore, only a doctor can calculate the safe and necessary amount of the active substance. This is especially important if the disease appears in a child.
Under certain conditions, adults usually recommended the following dosages:
- Vaginal candidiasis – 150 mg once a day.
- Urinary tract infection – 50–200 mg per day.
- Candidiasis of the oropharynx – 200 mg on the first day, then 100 mg once a day for two weeks.
- Candidiasis of the esophagus – 200 mg on the first day, then 100 mg once a day for three weeks.
- Cryptococcal meningitis – 400 mg on the first day, then 200 mg once a day for 10-12 weeks.
It is important to use the medicine throughout the entire treatment period, even if you feel better after the first few doses. The infection may not go away if you stop taking the drug too soon.
What you need to know about fluconazole before you start taking it
Some diseases and conditions may affect the way fluconazole works. Therefore, before prescribing medication, the patient should tell to the doctor:
- about problems with electrolytes,
- heart diseases,
- fructose malabsorption,
- sucrase-isomaltase deficiency,
- problems with heart rhythm,
- liver or kidney diseases.
You should also tell your doctor if you are allergic to any foods or other medications.
If a woman is taking fluconazole, she should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least a week after it. The fact is that the drug can seriously harm the developing fetus.
What side effects can fluconazole cause?
Fluconazole is generally well tolerated, but usually affects 1 in 100 people faces with side effects:
- headache,
- abdominal pain,
- diarrhea,
- nausea or vomiting
- rash.
You should call 103 or 112 and call an ambulance if you experience:
- jaundice,
- easy bruising,
- cardiopalmus,
- convulsions,
- itching,
- skin rash,
- loss of appetite,
- pain in muscles and joints,
- clay-colored stool
- dark urine.
How is fluconazole used during pregnancy and lactation?
Fluconazole for pregnant women appointonly if other antifungal agents have not helped.
There are no adequate studies to determine how dangerous the drug is for infants during breastfeeding. Therefore, a woman should consult a doctor to determine the potential benefits and risks of taking the medication.
What drugs should you not mix fluconazole with?
Before taking fluconazole, you should consult your doctor and tell him about all the medications you are taking. The fact is that the active substance can interact with a large list of other drugs. Here are just a few examples of drugs with which Not recommended combine fluconazole:
- statins prescribed for high cholesterol levels;
- pimozide, quetiapine, amisulpride, haloperidol, lithium or risperidonewhich are used to treat some mental disorders;
- escitalopram or venlafaxine for the treatment of depression;
- erythromycin or clarithromycin – antibiotics;
- ergotamine used for migraines or headaches;
- amiodarone prescribed for heart problems;
- warfarin, dabigatran or clopidogrel – medicines used to prevent blood clots;
- carbamazepineprescribed for epilepsy and nerve pain;
- losartanwhich is used for high blood pressure and heart failure.
What happens if I miss a dose of fluconazole?
If you miss a dose of fluconazole, take it as soon as possible. But if it’s time for the next dose, forget about the one you already missed and go back to your normal regimen.
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