Fluconazole is an antifungal medicine belonging to the triazole class. It is used to treat a range of fungal infections caused by susceptible organisms, particularly Candida species. Depending on the infection, fluconazole may be prescribed for vaginal candidiasis, oral oropharyngeal candidiasis, oesophageal candidiasis and certain more serious fungal infections.
How fluconazole works
Fluconazole inhibits an enzyme that fungi require to produce ergosterol, an important component of the fungal cell membrane. By interfering with ergosterol production, fluconazole weakens the fungal cell membrane and inhibits fungal growth.
Uses and indications
Fluconazole may be prescribed for:
- Vaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection)
- Oropharyngeal candidiasis (oral thrush)
- Oesophageal candidiasis
- Certain Candida urinary tract and systemic infections
- Cryptococcal meningitis
- Prevention of candidiasis in selected patients with severely compromised immunity, such as certain patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation
PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS
- Do not use if allergic to fluconazole or any of its ingredients.
- Inform your healthcare professional about liver or kidney disease.
- Inform your healthcare professional about heart rhythm problems.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you take.
- Fluconazole has important drug interactions.
- Use during pregnancy only when specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
- Use cautiously in patients at risk of QT prolongation or abnormal heart rhythms.
- Rare serious liver injury has been reported.
- Seek medical attention for severe allergic reactions or serious skin reactions.
- Persistent or recurrent fungal symptoms should be medically assessed rather than repeatedly self-treated.
Common side effects
Possible side effects include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Skin rash
