Diflucan

Uses

Diflucan is used to treat fungal infections resulting from fungus attacks anywhere in the body. These infections include vaginal candidiasis and oropharyngeal and esophageal candidiasis. It is also recommended in the treatment of Cryptococcal meningitis. It is also used to prevent the growth of fungal infections in persons whose immune systems have been weakened by AIDS, radiation treatments and bone marrow treatments.

Dosage

Diflucan comes in the form of tablet or liquid form that can be taken orally. It’s usually meant to be taken once a day, although the dosage differs on the type of infections that are being treated. For a vaginal candidiasis, the dosage is one tablet per day, while for other infections, treatment could start with a double dosage. Follow all directions on the label carefully. Do not take more number of tablets than are prescribed, and do not take for longer periods of time. Consult your doctor before stopping the medication.

Warnings

Do not take Diflucan if you’re allergic to any of its ingredients. Also do not use if you’re already using cisapride. The combination of the two drugs could cause fatal heart attacks. If you suffer from kidney disease, your doctor will alter your dosage or monitor your treatment, so inform your doctor of any kidney related conditions you have. Diflucan is a FDA Pregnancy category C drug that could have harmful effects on an unborn fetus. If you’re pregnant or plan to conceive during the course of treatment, inform your doctor. Diflucan can also pass to the infant through breast milk, if you’re nursing therefore, avoid taking Diflucan without consulting your doctor.

Missed dosage

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember to. If you remember too close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose entirely, and resume with your normal dosage schedule.

Side effects

If you notice some amount of diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, abdominal pain nausea, vomiting, or itching, continue with the medication, and inform your doctor of these side effects. Other side effects may be more severe. Look for allergic reactions including rashes, throat tightening, breathing difficulties, and hives, dark colored urine, pale stools and yellowing of the eyes and skin which can signify liver damage. If you notice these side effects, discontinue use, and consult your physician immediately.

Storage

Store Diflucan tablets below 86 degrees Fahrenheit and protect from freezing. In the case of injections, store between 77 and 41 degrees Fahrenheit.

Overdose

If you notify any decreased movement, or breathing confusion, tearing eyes, hallucinations, paranoia, or urinary incontinence, seek emergency medical care immediately. There is even a risk of seizures or death in case of an overdose.