Diflucan

 Category: Anti Fungal

Generic name: Fluconazole

Diflucan oral suspension or tablets

What is Diflucan?

Diflucan is an antifungal antibiotic. The active ingredient in Diflucan is fluconazole which is formulated as oral tablets and an oral suspension.

Drug Uses

Diflucan is available by prescription only. This drug is used to treat fungal infections of the throat, mouth, lungs, esophagus, ladder, genitals, and blood. Diflucan is also used to prevent fungal infections occurring in patients who have weak immune systems caused by AIDS, radiation treatment, or bone marrow transplant.

Diflucan is prescribed by doctors to treat other medical conditions not mentioned in this information guide.

Dosage

Diflucan should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Never increase or decrease the dose without consulting a doctor. Diflucan tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.

Doses will vary according to the condition being treated.

If using the oral suspension, use a proper medical measuring device to ensure the correct dosage is obtained. Shake the bottle well before use.

Take the full course of Diflucan, as prescribed, even if you are feeling better.

Diflucan is not prescribed to treat viral infections such as the common cold and influenza.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

Precautions

Do not take Diflucan if you are allergic to fluconazole.

Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: kidney or liver disease, irregular heart beat, or a history of Long QT syndrome (a rare heart condition).

Pregnant women, or women who are planning to become pregnant, should avoid the use of Diflucan as this drug may cause harm to an unborn fetus. Diflucan is passed into breast milk so women who are breast-feeding should discuss the risks of using Diflucan with a doctor.

Ensure that your doctor has a full knowledge of your medical history, including any other medications you are using. These include vitamin supplements, herbal medicines and over-the-counter remedies. Diflucan can react badly with certain medications.

Side-effects

Call for emergency medical assistance if any of the following allergic symptoms occur: difficulty in breathing, hives, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat.

Contact your doctor if you have any of the following serious side-effects: stomach pain, nausea, lack of appetite, low fever, clay-colored stools, dark urine, fever, chills, jaundice, flu symptoms, severe skin rash, blistering, peeling, weakness, easy bruising or bleeding, or convulsions.

Less serious side-effects may include vomiting, nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, skin rash or itching, or unpleasant taste in the mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If any other uncomfortable symptoms occur and persist, contact your doctor.

Overdose

If overdose with Diflucan is suspected, get emergency assistance immediately. Symptoms of overdose include unusual behavior or confusion.

Storage

Diflucan tablets should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sun and moisture. The oral suspension may be stored in a refrigerator but do not let it freeze. Throw out any unused amounts of the oral suspension after two weeks.