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. |
