Fluconazole (Diflucan) is an antifungal antibiotic used to prevent and treat infections caused by fungal or yeast infections in the mouth, throat, esophagus, lungs, genital area, and blood. Fluconazole is also used to prevent fungal infection in people with weak immune systems caused by cancer treatment, bone marrow transplant, or diseases such as AIDS.
Fluconazole will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or common cold.
How it should be used
If you have any questions before you take this medicine, ask your doctor or the pharmacist.
The pediatric dose is 10 mg/kg; maximum dose is 100 mg daily depending on the type of infection.
- Take the medicine with a full glass of water, with or without food, usually once a day.
- If you are taking the liquid form, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the medicine with a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct amount.
- Take the medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antifungal medication.
- If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Get emergency help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you overdose on this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include confusion or unusual thoughts or behavior.
Tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- Liver disease;
- Kidney disease;
- A heart rhythm disorder;
- Pregnant or breast-feeding
- Electrolyte abnormalities
- Unusual or allergic reaction to fluconazole, other azole antifungals, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
If you have an allergic reaction, get emergency help. Some of the signs include:
- Difficult breathing;
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Get medical attention for rare but serious side effects:
- Fast/irregulary heartbeat
- Severe dizziness
Less serious side effects:
- Mild stomach pain, diarrhea, upset stomach
- Unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.
This list may not have all the possible interactions. Made sure your doctor knows about all of the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs because some of these items may interact with your medicine.
Tablets can be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store liquid Diflucan in a refrigerator, but do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any leftover medicine more than two weeks old.