Description
Indications
Diflucan is an oral antifungal medication that is indicated for the treatment of fungal infections throughout the body, such as those affecting the mouth, throat, gastrointestinal system, respiratory system, bladder, and genitals.
Individuals who have a history of cancer may be at an increased risk of developing fungal infections and may, therefore, be more susceptible to these infections.
Uses and Dosage
Take Diflucan as directed by your doctor. Follow all instructions on your prescription label, and read all medication guides or instructions carefully.
Your dosage will depend on the type of infection being treated. For vaginal infections, a single pill may be sufficient, while other infections may require a double dose for the first treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions closely.
Diflucan can be taken with or without food.
Important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve quickly. Skipping doses can increase your risk of developing medication-resistant infections. Note that fluconazole will not treat viral infections such as the flu or a common cold.
Side Effects
Severe Side Effects
Diflucan may cause serious side effects, such as:
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Flutter in your chest
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden dizziness
- Fever, chills, body aches, and flu symptoms
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Unusual weakness
- Seizure (convulsions)
- Skin rash or lesions
- Loss of appetite
- Upper stomach pain
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stool
- Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of Diflucan are:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Changes in your sense of taste
If you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away, inform your doctor.
Caution
Before taking Diflucan, inform your doctor of any prescription medications you are taking to avoid unwanted drug interactions. The concomitant use of Diflucan with certain drugs such as cisapride, erythromycin, pimozide, and quinidine may result in adverse effects.
Disclose all current or recently stopped medications to your doctor before starting any new prescription. If you have a history of kidney, liver, or heart disease, inform your doctor before using Diflucan.
If you are hypersensitive to any other antifungal drug, including ketoconazole, itraconazole, miconazole, posaconazole, or voriconazole, do not take Diflucan.