How does fluconazole work to treat fungal infections. Can you safely drink alcohol while taking fluconazole. What are the potential risks of combining fluconazole and alcohol. How long does it take for fluconazole to start working. Are there any long-term side effects of taking fluconazole.

The Mechanism of Action: How Fluconazole Combats Fungal Infections

Fluconazole, commonly known by its brand name Diflucan, is a powerful antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections. But how exactly does it work?

Fluconazole operates by targeting the cell membranes of fungi. It creates holes in these membranes, causing the contents of the fungal cells to leak out. This process effectively kills the fungus, alleviating the infection and its associated symptoms.

When taken preventively, fluconazole works proactively by eliminating any fungus as soon as it begins to appear, thus preventing the development of an infection.

The Timeline of Fluconazole’s Effectiveness

How quickly can you expect fluconazole to work? The answer depends on the type and severity of the fungal infection:

• For common infections like vaginal thrush, balanitis, or oral thrush, symptoms typically improve within 7 days of starting fluconazole treatment.
• In cases of more serious fungal infections, it may take 1 to 2 weeks for fluconazole to reach its full effect.

If your symptoms persist after 7 days of treatment for common infections, it’s crucial to consult your doctor. They may recommend extending the treatment or prescribing an alternative antifungal medication.

Alcohol and Fluconazole: A Risky Combination?

Many patients wonder about the safety of consuming alcohol while taking fluconazole. While the NHS states that you can drink alcohol while on fluconazole, it’s important to consider potential risks and complications.

Potential Risks of Mixing Alcohol and Fluconazole

Combining alcohol with fluconazole may lead to:

1. Increased risk of liver toxicity
2. Enhanced side effects of fluconazole
3. Compromised immune system function

Although alcohol doesn’t directly make fluconazole ineffective, it can interfere with your body’s ability to fight off infections. When you’re trying to combat a fungal infection, it’s best to avoid substances that could potentially weaken your immune system.

Long-Term Use of Fluconazole: Safety and Considerations

Is it safe to take fluconazole for extended periods? For most people, fluconazole is prescribed for short-term use to clear an infection. However, in cases of serious infections, long-term use may be necessary.

If your doctor has advised long-term fluconazole treatment, it’s generally considered safe. However, your healthcare provider may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your health during extended use.

Alternative Antifungal Treatments: Exploring Your Options

Fluconazole is just one of many antifungal medications available. Depending on your specific condition, other treatment options might be more suitable.

Common Antifungal Alternatives

• Clotrimazole
• Econazole
• Fenticonazole
• Itraconazole
• Ketoconazole
• Miconazole
• Griseofulvin
• Terbinafine

These medications come in various forms, including creams, gels, sprays, pessaries, tablets, capsules, liquids, and injections. Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your specific condition and needs.

Fluconazole and Contraception: Important Considerations for Women

For women taking oral contraceptives, it’s crucial to understand how fluconazole might interact with their birth control method.

Does Fluconazole Affect Contraceptive Efficacy?

Generally, fluconazole is not likely to affect the effectiveness of contraceptives, including the combined pill or emergency contraception. However, there are a few important points to consider:

• If fluconazole causes severe vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours, it may reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive pills.
• Some women have reported breakthrough bleeding (spotting) when taking fluconazole and the combined pill together.
• Studies suggest that fluconazole might slightly increase hormone levels in women using the combined pill.

If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking fluconazole and oral contraceptives, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Driving and Operating Machinery While Taking Fluconazole

Can you safely drive or operate machinery while on fluconazole? In most cases, yes. However, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects that could impact your ability to perform these activities safely.

Potential Side Effects Affecting Driving

In rare instances, fluconazole can cause:

• Dizziness
• Light-headedness

If you experience these symptoms, refrain from driving or operating machinery until they subside. Always prioritize safety and use your best judgment when deciding whether it’s safe to drive while taking fluconazole.

Dietary Considerations While Taking Fluconazole

Do you need to modify your diet while taking fluconazole? Fortunately, fluconazole doesn’t have any specific food or drink restrictions. You can maintain your normal eating and drinking habits while on this medication.

However, it’s always wise to maintain a balanced, nutritious diet to support your immune system while fighting off a fungal infection. Staying hydrated and consuming probiotic-rich foods may also help support your overall health during treatment.

Recognizing and Managing Potential Side Effects of Fluconazole

While fluconazole is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Understanding these can help you recognize when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects of Fluconazole

• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Changes in taste

These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

• Severe skin reactions (rash, blistering, peeling)
• Signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face/throat)

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Fluconazole Interactions: Medications to Avoid

Fluconazole can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Medications That May Interact with Fluconazole

• Warfarin and other blood thinners
• Certain antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline)
• Some statins used to lower cholesterol
• Certain diabetes medications
• Some anticonvulsants used to treat epilepsy

Your doctor may need to adjust dosages or monitor you more closely if you’re taking any of these medications along with fluconazole.

Fluconazole in Special Populations: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Children

The use of fluconazole in certain populations requires special consideration. Let’s explore the guidelines for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children.

Fluconazole During Pregnancy

Fluconazole use during pregnancy, especially in high doses or for extended periods, may increase the risk of birth defects. It’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking fluconazole.

Fluconazole and Breastfeeding

Fluconazole can pass into breast milk in small amounts. While it’s generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, it’s important to discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.

Fluconazole Use in Children

Fluconazole can be used in children, but dosages are typically based on weight. Always follow your pediatrician’s instructions carefully when administering fluconazole to children.

Preventing Fungal Infections: Tips for Maintaining Health

While fluconazole is effective in treating fungal infections, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to reduce your risk of developing fungal infections:

• Maintain good personal hygiene
• Keep skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to fungal growth
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels or shoes
• Practice safe sex to prevent the spread of yeast infections
• Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support your immune system

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of fungal infections and potentially avoid the need for antifungal treatments like fluconazole.

Understanding Antifungal Resistance: The Importance of Proper Use

Antifungal resistance is an emerging concern in the medical community. Proper use of medications like fluconazole is crucial to prevent the development of resistant fungal strains.

Tips to Prevent Antifungal Resistance

• Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed
• Don’t use antifungal medications unnecessarily
• Avoid sharing antifungal medications with others
• Use antifungal medications only as directed by your healthcare provider

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the continued effectiveness of antifungal treatments like fluconazole for yourself and others.

Fluconazole vs. Over-the-Counter Antifungal Treatments

While fluconazole is a prescription medication, many over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments are available. How do they compare, and when should you opt for prescription fluconazole?

OTC Antifungal Treatments

• Typically used for mild to moderate fungal infections
• Often available as creams, powders, or suppositories
• Examples include miconazole and clotrimazole

When to Choose Prescription Fluconazole

• For more severe or persistent infections
• When OTC treatments have been ineffective
• For systemic fungal infections affecting internal organs
• When recommended by your healthcare provider

Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure whether an OTC treatment or prescription medication like fluconazole is more appropriate for your condition.

The Future of Antifungal Treatment: Research and Development

As fungal infections continue to pose health challenges worldwide, researchers are working on developing new and improved antifungal treatments. What does the future hold for medications like fluconazole?

Emerging Trends in Antifungal Research

• Development of new classes of antifungal drugs
• Exploration of combination therapies for enhanced effectiveness
• Research into novel drug delivery methods
• Investigation of natural compounds with antifungal properties

While fluconazole remains a valuable tool in treating fungal infections, ongoing research may lead to even more effective and targeted treatments in the future.

Fluconazole and Immune System Health: A Holistic Approach

While fluconazole effectively treats fungal infections, supporting your immune system can enhance its efficacy and help prevent future infections. How can you boost your immune health while taking fluconazole?

Strategies to Support Immune Function

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Get regular exercise
• Ensure adequate sleep and stress management
• Consider probiotic supplements to support gut health
• Stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking

By adopting these lifestyle habits, you can support your body’s natural defenses and potentially improve the effectiveness of antifungal treatments like fluconazole.

Traveling with Fluconazole: Tips and Considerations

If you’re planning to travel while taking fluconazole, it’s important to be prepared. How can you ensure you have access to your medication and continue your treatment effectively while away from home?

Travel Tips for Fluconazole Users

• Carry your medication in its original, labeled container
• Bring a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note
• Pack enough medication to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays
• Research local healthcare options at your destination
• Consider time zone changes when planning your dosage schedule
• Keep your medication in your carry-on luggage when flying

By planning ahead, you can ensure that your fluconazole treatment continues smoothly during your travels, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about your medication.

Common questions about fluconazole – NHS

How does fluconazole work?

Fluconazole is an antifungal medicine. It works by killing the fungus (or yeast) that is causing the infection.

The medicine kills fungus by making holes in the fungus’s cell membrane, so that the contents leak out. This treats the infection and allows your symptoms to get better.

If you’re taking fluconazole to prevent an infection, the medicine kills any fungus as it starts to appear.

When will I feel better?

Fluconazole is used for many different fungal infections.

If you have vaginal thrush, balanitis or oral thrush, your symptoms should be better within 7 days of taking fluconazole.

If you have a serious fungal infection, ask your doctor how long it will take for fluconazole to start to work. It may be 1 to 2 weeks before it reaches its full effect.

What if it does not work?

Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of taking fluconazole for vaginal thrush, balanitis or oral thrush.

Your doctor may ask you to take it for longer, or they may prescribe a different antifungal treatment.

If your symptoms get worse at any time, speak to your doctor.

Are there any long-term side effects?

You usually take fluconazole for a short time to clear an infection.

If you have a serious infection, you may need to take fluconazole long term. It’s safe to take for a long time if your doctor has advised you to.

If you take fluconazole long term, your doctor may ask you to have regular blood tests.

Are there other medicines for fungal infections?

There are many different antifungal medicines. Some are available to buy from a pharmacy, others are available on prescription.

They can come as creams, gels, sprays, pessaries (soft tablets you put into your vagina), tablets, capsules, liquid, or injections.

Your doctor or a pharmacist will be able to recommend the best treatment for you, based on your condition.

Other antifungal medicines include:

• clotrimazole
• econazole
• fenticonazole
• itraconazole
• ketoconazole
• miconazole
• griseofulvin
• terbinafine

Will it affect my contraception?

Fluconazole is not likely to affect your contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.

If taking fluconazole makes you sick (vomit) or have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.

Find out what to do if you’re taking the pill and you’re being sick or have diarrhoea.

There have been some reports of breakthrough bleeding, known as spotting, when people take fluconazole and the combined pill together. It is not known whether this is caused by taking fluconazole. If you get any breakthrough bleeding while using oral contraception, speak to your doctor.

Some studies have shown that there’s a small chance that fluconazole could increase the levels of hormones in your body when using the combined pill. You can continue taking fluconazole with your oral contraception, but if you get any side effects, such as feeling sick or tender breasts, speak to your doctor.

Can I drive or ride a bike?

Yes, you can usually drive or ride a bike while taking fluconazole.

In rare cases, taking fluconazole can make you feel dizzy or light-headed. If you’re affected, do not drive or cycle until this feeling goes away.

It’s an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It’s your responsibility to decide if it’s safe to drive. If you’re in any doubt, do not drive.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure whether it’s safe for you to drive while taking fluconazole. GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.

Can I drink alcohol while taking fluconazole?

You can drink alcohol while taking fluconazole.

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?

No, you can eat or drink normally while taking fluconazole.

Page last reviewed: 9 March 2023

Next review due: 9 March 2026

Does Alcohol Make Diflucan Ineffective?

While alcohol doesn’t necessarily make Diflucan less effective, there are other risks to combining these substances.

Article at a Glance:

Can you mix alcohol and Diflucan? 

• No, you shouldn’t because there is the potential for liver toxicity and enhanced side effects when you combine alcohol and Diflucan.
• While alcohol doesn’t make Diflucan ineffective, it may further compromise your immune system when you’re trying to combat an infection.

What To Know About Alcohol and Diflucan

There are quite a few drugs that produce certain effects when they’re mixed with alcohol. One of those drugs is Diflucan. People frequently wonder about the effects of combining alcohol and Diflucan and whether alcohol makes Diflucan ineffective.

The following provides information on Diflucan, the effects of combining alcohol and Diflucan, and the answer to the question “does alcohol make Diflucan ineffective?”

What to Know About Alcohol and Diflucan

The general warning about alcohol and Diflucan is that you shouldn’t drink when using this drug.  

One of the reasons it’s best to avoid combining alcohol and Diflucan is because, in some rare circumstances, Diflucan can cause serious liver problems. The risk of liver toxicity with alcohol and Diflucan isn’t common, but since it is possible, it’s important for patients to follow their physician’s warnings when taking Diflucan. People with liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatitis should also not take Diflucan.

It’s also important to note that Diflucan has a long half-life, which means that you should make sure it’s completely eliminated from your system before drinking. Speak with your physician for more specific recommendations regarding alcohol and Diflucan.

What Is Diflucan?

Diflucan is the prescription brand name of the drug fluconazole, often used as an anti-fungal medicine. Diflucan is used to treat various fungal infections including vaginal, esophageal and oral infections. Diflucan can also be used to treat fungal urinary tract infections and cryptococcal meningitis. It can also help prevent Candida infections in people who are treated with radiation or chemotherapy before a bone marrow transplant.

Regardless of whether or not alcohol and Diflucan are combined, there are some possible side effects with the use of this drug. Common Diflucan side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, headache, dyspepsia, diarrhea, dizziness and rash. There are also some other possible serious but rare side effects, such as seizures and a reduced number of white blood cells and platelets.

Along with possible interactions with alcohol and Diflucan, which will be detailed below, this medicine can also interact with other drugs. Some of the drugs that may interact with Diflucan include rifampin, warfarin and erythromycin.

Does Alcohol Make Diflucan Ineffective?

So, while it’s not recommended that you mix alcohol and Diflucan because of the potential for liver toxicity and heightened symptoms, does alcohol make Diflucan ineffective?

A lot of people may ask this question because of a general myth that alcohol renders antibiotics ineffective. This is not the case, and mixing alcohol and Diflucan doesn’t make the medicine ineffective. It may cause adverse side effects, but ineffectiveness isn’t one of them.

Another reason people may wonder about if alcohol can make Diflucan ineffective is due to the effect that alcohol has on the immune system. When you drink, it weakens your immune system, so it may make it more difficult for you to get past the infection that led to your need for Diflucan in the first place. You may confuse this with alcohol making Diflucan ineffective when in reality, the medicine is just as effective as it would be ordinarily. 

When you’re thinking about alcohol and Diflucan, it’s essential not just to consider the potential for enhanced side effects and liver toxicity, but also your body’s need to be strong to heal itself.

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Editor – Nicole LaNeve

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Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

Quick solution to a delicate problem | PHARMACY

A woman is a beautiful fragrant flower. However, maintaining this beauty is not so easy. A light dress, high-heeled shoes and a barely perceptible scent of perfume – such associations, as a rule, are evoked by the fair sex in men in the summer. Oh, how I want to match it! Makeup, hairstyle, styling, wardrobe selection are just a small fraction of those daily procedures that women carry out in order to look attractive. Beauty is above all else – many of us think, collecting a cosmetic bag and going to work. However, what to do if such a delicate problem as thrush (candidiasis) causes discomfort and prevents you from feeling attractive?

Such a disease as thrush has been known to medicine since the time of Hippocrates. Vaginal candidiasis is one of the most common pathologies in the structure of infections of the lower parts of the female genital organs. The breadth of its distribution cannot but impress: 75% of women of reproductive age suffer at least 1 episode of vaginal candidiasis during their lives (Sherrard J. et al., 2011).

Currently, more than 170 biological species of yeast-like fungi have been described, among which the vast majority (91.6%) of cases, the causative agent of vaginal candidiasis are fungi of the genus C andida (Levonchuk E.A., 2010). It is worth noting that these are representatives of the normal microflora of the vagina, however, if favorable conditions are created, they begin to actively multiply, which leads to the development of the disease.

Among the reasons that may contribute to the occurrence of thrush, there are: prolonged or unsystematic use of drugs (antibiotics, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives with a high content of estrogens, cytostatics), radiation therapy, weakened immunity due to a severe infectious disease, trauma or surgery, and also endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus, ovarian dysfunction) and pregnancy. Risk factors for the development of candidiasis are also wearing tight-fitting clothing, personal hygiene features: the use of sanitary napkins, vaginal tampons, douching (Kisina V.I., 2010).

BAD ACQUAINTANCE

Those who are familiar with thrush firsthand know that symptoms such as the presence of copious cheesy discharge, itching and burning in the vulva, pain during intercourse are characteristic of this disease. In some cases, it can also affect the genitourinary system, which is manifested by painful sensations during urination (Kasabulatov M.N., 2003).

Perhaps the manifestation of these symptoms runs counter to a sense of comfort and a sense of self-attractiveness, so it is not surprising that the fair sex seeks to get rid of them as quickly as possible. How to do it? Let’s figure it out…

DIFLUCAN

^® IS A TRUE ASSISTANT IN ELIMINATION OF WOMEN’S PROBLEMS

In connection with the pronounced tendency towards the spread of thrush, the problem of its treatment is of particular importance. In recent years, antifungal drugs of the triazole series, in particular fluconazole, have been widely used in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis. However, it should be noted that not all drugs, the active ingredient of which is fluconazole, are equally effective. So, in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, it is advisable to prescribe original drugs, since generics are often inferior in effectiveness to original drugs. In this regard, the time-tested original drug DIFLUCAN 9 deserves special attention.0021 ® produced by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer*, the active ingredient of which is fluconazole.

In a comparative study of in vitro fungicidal activity of various preparations containing fluconazole, it was found that the highest statistically significant fungicidal activity against 3 model strains of yeast-like fungi ( C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. Glabrata ) at maximum ( 150 mg/ml) and the minimum (2 mg/ml) concentration showed DIFLUCAN ^® (Zheltikova T. M., Glushakova A.M., 2010).

The active component of DIFLUCAN ^® – fluconazole – inhibits the synthesis of sterols (an important component of the fungal cell wall), has a highly specific effect on fungal enzymes, as a result of which it inhibits the growth of fungi.

DIFLUCAN ^® at a dose of 150 mg is highly active against the causative agent of thrush – yeast-like fungi C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis – and only about 0.9% of strains of this genus of fungi ( C. krusei and others) are resistant to fluconazole or have intermediate sensitivity. It should be noted that in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, the effectiveness of this active substance is 93.3% (Tyutyunnik V.L., Ordzhonikidze L.V., 2001).

When DIFLUCAN ^® is taken orally, fluconazole is well absorbed and penetrates into all body fluids, and then from blood plasma into tissues. In this regard, fluconazole enters the tissues of the female reproductive system in an amount sufficient to treat vaginal candidiasis. Even 72 hours after oral administration, the concentration of fluconazole in the blood plasma and reproductive system exceeds the minimum inhibitory concentration for pathogenic yeast-like fungi (Mikhailov A.V. et al., 2007). Due to the long half-life of the drug from blood plasma (30 hours) in uncomplicated vaginal candidiasis, which is 90% of cases (Pappas P.G. et al., 2009), the recommended treatment regimen with DIFLUCAN is 150 mg once (Kuzmin V.N., 2011).

DIFLUCAN ^® is currently the drug of choice for the treatment of acute vaginal candidiasis. The most optimal is a single oral administration of the drug at a dose of 150 mg, which determines its advantage over other antimycotics (Prilepskaya V.N., Bayramova G.R., 1998). The average time to improvement when using the drug is 1 day.

In the case of the development of vaginal candidiasis in a nursing mother, it should be borne in mind that breastfeeding can be continued with a single dose of the drug DIFLUCAN ^® at a dose of 200 mg.

Extravaginal reservoirs of candidal infection (gastrointestinal tract) are a potential source of recolonization and reinfection (Makhnovets E.N., 2013). Due to the systemic action, DIFLUCAN ^® acts on fungi C. albicans both in the vagina and in extravaginal lesions, which ensures a high cure rate, reducing the need for a second course.

Another argument in favor of choosing the drug DIFLUCAN ^® for the treatment of thrush is its convenient form – capsules for oral administration. The drug can be taken at any time of the day, regardless of the meal and the day of the menstrual cycle.

DIFLUCAN ^® has a favorable safety profile, the use of its injectable form is allowed from the 1st day of a child’s life. It can also be prescribed to the elderly and patients with renal insufficiency.

Many women prefer oral antifungals to topical ones, finding such treatments unpleasant. Also, local therapy has a number of features: as a rule, it is not recommended to carry out such treatment during menstruation; local agents can reduce the contraceptive effect of latex barrier contraceptives, for example, condoms, vaginal diaphragms (Workowski K. A. et al., 2010). In addition, such therapy can contribute to the development of resistance of fungi to drugs and, as a result, the development of recurrent forms of the disease (Evseev A.A., 2009).

It is worth noting that the package of the drug DIFLUCAN ^® fits even in a small handbag, so the modern treatment of a delicate problem will always be at your fingertips.

Press Service of the Weekly APTEKA

Diflucan

how to take, instructions, how to drink, treatment

Contents

• Choice of drug
• Mechanism of action
• Composition and formulation
• In what cases it is used
• Treatment regimen and dosage
• Possible adverse reactions
• Contraindications for use
• Drug interactions
• Special instructions
• Conditions for sale and storage
• Prevention of relapses

9010 9

Fluconazole is a treatment for nail fungus that has been reported positive by many patients . Let the action is not instantaneous, but the side effects are minimal. With due patience and diligence, nails can be restored to health. This drug is an excellent assistant in the treatment of fungus.

Onychomycosis is a fungal disease of the nail plate, most often affects the toenails. Infection is possible in a pool, a public bath, if you try on someone else’s shoes. The disease delivers not only physical, but also psychological discomfort. Nail fungus is dangerous for the body, its vital activity causes intoxication of all organs and systems, which can lead to serious complications. There are various types of drugs against the fungus: clotrimazole, nystatin, pimafucin, levorin. What is suitable, the doctor will decide.

Fluconazole is an excellent remedy for nail fungus. Consult a dermatologist who will select a treatment regimen. Type, dosage of the drug is prescribed by a doctor. Forms of release are different – external, internal, intravenous. More often, a person seeks help when the disease has already developed and deeply affected the nail plate.

Choice of drug

Fluconazole has been approved by many people who have tried it. The remedy has many advantages in comparison with similar drugs. It can be bought at any pharmacy, it is cheap and the treatment will be inexpensive. You can choose the dosage according to age, concomitant diseases. The minimum number of contraindications, side effects is also an important factor. The drug perfectly copes with the task, helps to cure advanced cases of nail fungus.

Mechanism of action

When administered intravenously and by mouth, fluconazole saturates all tissues and body fluids. The maximum blood saturation of 90% occurs one and a half hours after ingestion per os. It is introduced into the membrane of fungal cells, destroys it, thereby stopping the spread of infection throughout the body. When using external forms of fluconazole for nail fungus, the mechanism of action is the same, only the percentage of penetration into the blood is less.

The drug accumulates in the stratum corneum, the epidermis. In the nails, if the tablets are taken for 4 months, the concentration is 1.8 mcg/g in patients and 4 mcg/g in uninfected. After the end of the treatment of nail fungus, six months later, the drug was still found in the nail plates.

The drug is excreted mainly through the kidneys, 80% of fluconazole is excreted in the urine in the same form.

Treatment with a fungal nail infection kills other species along the way, such as Candida in vaginal candidiasis.

Composition and dosage form

The main active ingredient in the composition of all dosage forms is fluconazole. Excipients are different in each drug. For solid forms, these are starch, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide. In what form the remedy will be prescribed, how much the dosage will be, depends on the stage and localization of the infection.

Available dosage forms:

• External – ointments, varnishes. They are used when the nail plate is slightly affected and the patient’s immunity is quite good.
• Internal – capsules, tablets, injection solutions, suppositories. Discharged when the disease is advanced. For children, the drug is available in the form of a suspension, it is convenient to take the medicine in this form.

Capsules and tablets are more commonly prescribed for onychomycosis. The dose of the drug is from 50 mg to 400 mg. Produced in blisters of 2, 7, 10 pieces, which are packed in a cardboard box. Each includes instructions for use.

In what cases it is used

Fluconazole is prescribed for diseases:

• Onychomycosis.
• Candida infections.
• Cryptococcal meningitis.
• Generalized candidiasis.
• Skin candidal infections.
• Ringworm.

Fungal nail application should be started before the tests are known, but when the culture is ready, it is necessary to adjust the treatment.

The drug is also used for prophylactic purposes in patients with oncology after chemotherapy, after prolonged antibacterial therapy, in HIV-infected patients with frequent mycotic manifestations.

Treatment regimen and dosage

How long the treatment will take, what the scheme will be, depends on the stage and location of the disease, the type of fungus, its prevalence throughout the body. At the initial stage, 150 mg of the drug is prescribed, which is required to be drunk once every 7 days for 6 weeks or until the diseased nails are completely replaced.

For a generalized fungal infection, fluconazole 50 mg daily is given.

The drug perfectly treats foot fungus, so the use of other drugs of the antimycotic group is not required and even dangerous. Along the way, fluconazole will cure other types of fungus, if they are present in the body.

Medication is not dependent on food intake. It is enough to take the tablets with plenty of water. It is better to take the remedy at the same time of the day.

To speed up the treatment of the fungus, file and cut off diseased toenails and hands. To soften severely affected nails with a fungus, you can make baths from a soap and soda solution. Then apply ointment or varnish.

Instructions for therapy given by a dermatologist must be strictly observed, then it will be possible to achieve the desired effect. The therapeutic result is not achieved quickly, so it is better to be patient.

Possible adverse reactions

If you follow the doctor’s prescriptions correctly, follow the dosage, adhere to the treatment regimen, fluconazole practically does not give undesirable reactions. But all people are individual, so reactions to pills are possible:

1. On the part of the gastrointestinal tract, epigastric pain, loose stools, and may feel sick.
2. Headache, dizziness, possible convulsions and hallucinations.
3. Disorder of the liver and gastrointestinal tract, jaundice.
4. Allergy, up to anaphylactic shock.
5. Skin changes – rash, alopecia areas.

If these symptoms appear, stop taking the drug and go to the hospital for help.

Contraindications for use

1. Fluconazole should not be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding. It penetrates the placental barrier and into breast milk, which may adversely affect the baby. Cases are excluded when the life of a pregnant woman depends on taking the medicine.
2. With caution, this drug is prescribed for nail fungus in people with chronic systemic diseases, disorders of the liver, kidneys, cardiovascular system. Each case is considered by the doctor individually, if necessary, the dosage and treatment regimen are adjusted.
3. Children’s age up to 4 years.
4. Allergy to individual components of the drug.

Drug Interactions

When a doctor prescribes any pills, be sure to tell him which drugs are taken constantly.

1. Fluconazole and warfarin. With the simultaneous administration of drugs, the prothrombin time increases, so bleeding may occur. In such cases, it is recommended to take a coagulogram and monitor this indicator.
2. Benzodiazepines. Fluconazole enhances the effect of this series of drugs, so a different dosage is needed if combined use is necessary.
3. Oral contraceptives. Studies have not shown a significant effect of fluconazole on the effect of oral contraceptives, so that joint use is possible.
4. Simultaneous administration of an antifungal drug and cisapride is contraindicated, as there may be consequences from the heart – rhythm failure, flickering.
5. In patients with diabetes mellitus, sulfonylurea and fluconazole therapy may lower blood sugar. You need constant monitoring.
6. Terfenadine and fluconazole cause arrhythmia, concomitant administration is not recommended.
7. Tacrolimus – when taken together, the concentration of this drug in plasma increases, the toxic effect on the kidneys increases.

More contraindications in the instructions for use.

Special instructions

When taking fluconazole, it is necessary to take into account some of its features:

1. Patients with any kidney disease need a reduced dosage of the drug. If you need to take one time, then the dosage is normal.
2. Since the effect on the liver is possible, monitoring of its functioning is required, for this, periodically donate blood for analysis. The hepatotoxic effect of an antifungal drug is usually reversible.
3. Dose adjustments are not required in the elderly unless kidney disease is present.
4. People with AIDS need to be wary of developing allergic and dermatological reactions. When such symptoms appear, a replacement of the drug is required.
5. Alcohol and fluconazole are not compatible. If you treat nail fungus, you need to stop drinking alcohol.

Continue treatment of fungus until symptoms disappear. To avoid reinfection:

• Treat your shoes with an antifungal agent.
• Refuse to wear other people’s shoes.
• Wear flip-flops in public baths and swimming pools.

Terms of sale and storage

The advantage of the product is its availability. Fluconazole is sold in almost every pharmacy, available without a prescription.

Store in a dark place away from children. The room temperature is below 25 degrees Celsius. Valid for 2 years from the date of manufacture, after this period it is not allowed to use.

Prevention of recurrence

After the fungus of the nails is cured with fluconazole, the hands and feet become healthy, we keep this result forever. To do this, you can do prevention:

1. Do not use someone else’s shoes.
2. Change socks daily.
3. Fight sweaty feet – rinse daily with cool water, use talcum powder.
4. Keep hands and feet clean.
5. Take your own shoes to public places – sauna, swimming pool.
6. Periodically visit a dermatologist for a checkup.