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.
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.
