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.
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