DIFLUCAN DRUG INFO
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to
supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be
construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this
drug.
FLUCONAZOLE - ORAL (flew-CON-uh-zole)
COMMON
BRAND NAME(S): Diflucan
USES: This medication is an
antifungal agent used to treat infections in certain areas of the body
caused by yeast and yeast-like organisms.
HOW TO USE: This
medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at
a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced
intervals. Take as directed since different conditions require different
methods of use. This drug is usually taken once daily. Another dosing
method involves taking the drug for one week per month until treatment is
completed. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed
amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping
the medication too early may allow the yeast to continue to grow resulting
in a relapse of the infection.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication
may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, altered taste, diarrhea,
nausea, headache or dizziness during the first few days as your body
adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe,
inform your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to
this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic
reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical
history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, any drug allergies.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Fluconazole is excreted
into breast milk. The manufacturer of this drug recommends it not be used
while breast-feeding. Consult your doctor before you
breast-feed.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor or
pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use,
especially of: astemizole, cisapride, cimetidine, oral contraceptives,
cyclosporine, oral antidiabetic drugs, hydrochlorothiazide, phenytoin,
rifampin, rifabutin, certain benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam,
triazolam), tacrolimus, terfenadine, theophylline, warfarin, zidovudine.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your
local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of
overdose may include hallucinations and changes in
behavior.
NOTES: This medication has been prescribed for
your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or
give it to someone else. A different medicine may be
needed.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as
remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, take the scheduled
dose only. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in
the bathroom. |
