What is fluconazole?
Fluconazole is an antimycotic agent from the group of triazoles. It is used for treating fungal infections, including vaginal fungi (vaginal candidose), soor in the mouth area and systemic fungal infections.
With uncomplicated vaginal mushroom, a single capsule with 150 mg is usually sufficient. The active ingredient is taken orally and distributed over the blood circulation in the body – it also reaches the vaginal mucosa.
Known brand names are Diflucan® and numerous generics.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Fluconazol
Fluconazole specifically inhibits the fungal cells:
Active mechanism:
- Inhibits the enzyme Lanosterol-14α-Demethylase
- This enzyme is necessary for ergosterol synthesis
- Ergosterol is an essential part of the fungal cell membrane
- Without ergosterol, the membrane becomes permeable and the fungus dies
Activity spectrum:
- Candida albicans (the most common pathogen of vaginal fungi)
- Other Candida species
- Cryptoccus
- Dermatophytes
Selectivity: Fluconazole acts much stronger on fungal cells than on human cells, as people do not produce ergosterol.
Who is it suitable for?
Fluconazole is suitable for:
- Women with acute vaginal fungi
- Recurrent vaginal mushroom (Prophylaxe)
- Soor (Pilz attack in the mouth/noise)
- Systemic fungal infections
Advantages for local therapy:
- Easy intake (only one capsule)
- No local application required
- Works in difficult to reach areas
Not suitable:
- In case of uncertainty about diagnosis
- Bacterial vaginal (other pathogens)
- Pregnancy (only with urgent indication)
Available Dosages
For uncomplicated vaginal mushroom:
- 150 mg as a single dose
For recurrent vaginal mushroom:
- Initial: 150 mg per day 1, 4 and 7
- Then 150 mg once a week for 6 months
For mouth soor:
- 50-100 mg daily for 7-14 days
Available starches:
- 50 mg capsules
- 100 mg capsules
- 150 mg capsules
- 200 mg capsules
How to Take
Intake:
- Swallow capsule with water
- Independent meals
In acute vaginal fungus:
- Take a capsule 150 mg
- Effect starts within 24-48 hours
- Symptoms usually improve within 24 hours
Important:
- Take all prescribed quantity
- Even if symptoms improve quickly
- Partners usually do not have to be treated
Contraindications
**Fluconazole must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to fluconazole or other azole antimycotics
- Simultaneous administration of terfenadin, astemizol, cisaprid, pimozide, quinidine (QT extension)
Preview at:
- Liver disease
- Kidney insufficiency (dose adjustment)
- Heart rhythm disorders
- Electrolyte faults
pregnant: The disposable dose 150 mg should be avoided during pregnancy. There are indications of possible malformations at higher doses. prefer local therapy.
Style time: Go to breast milk. One dose possible, interrupt breastfeeding during prolonged therapy.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Headaches
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- nausea
- Skin rash
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Break.
- Taste disorders
- Squeeze
- Increased liver levels
Selten:
- Heavy skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
- liver damage
- QT extension
- Anaphylaxis
For single dose: The side effects are usually mild and temporary at a single dose of 150 mg.
Interactions
Contraint with:
- Terfenadin, astemizol (antihistamines)
- Cisaprid (Prokinetic)
- Pimozide, quinidine (QT extension)
Dosis adjustment required at:
- Warfarin – increased bleeding tendency (controll)
- Oral antidiabetics – hypoglycemia possible
- Ciclosporin, Tacrolimus – raised mirror
- Statine – increased rhabdomyolysis risk
- benzodiazepines – reinforced sedation
Fluconazole inhibits CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, so many interactions are possible. In case of permanent medication inform doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is fluconazole right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.