What are the main uses of Diflucan for skin yeast infections. How should Diflucan be taken to treat fungal skin conditions. What are the potential side effects and drug interactions of fluconazole. How does Diflucan compare to other antifungal treatments for skin infections.

Understanding Fluconazole (Diflucan) and Its Role in Treating Fungal Infections

Fluconazole, commonly known by its brand name Diflucan, is a powerful antifungal medication used to combat various fungal infections in both humans and animals. As a member of the azole class of antifungal drugs, fluconazole works by inhibiting the growth of fungi, making it an effective treatment for a wide range of fungal infections, including skin yeast infections.

Fluconazole is particularly useful in treating opportunistic infections (OIs) in people with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV. Its versatility in addressing different types of fungi has made it a go-to medication for healthcare providers when dealing with stubborn fungal infections that don’t respond to topical treatments.

How does fluconazole work against fungal infections?

Fluconazole operates by interfering with the fungal cell membrane formation. It inhibits the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, which is crucial for the production of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. By disrupting this process, fluconazole effectively weakens the fungal cell structure, leading to the death of the fungal organism or preventing its growth and reproduction.

Common Uses of Diflucan for Skin Yeast Infections

While Diflucan is prescribed for various fungal infections, it has shown particular efficacy in treating skin yeast infections. These infections are often caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of yeast naturally present on the skin and in the body.

• Candidiasis (thrush) of the skin and mucous membranes
• Fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis)
• Persistent or recurrent vaginal yeast infections
• Fungal infections in skin folds (intertrigo)
• Tinea versicolor, a common fungal infection causing discolored patches on the skin

Diflucan is particularly valuable when topical antifungal treatments have proven ineffective or when the infection is widespread or recurrent. Its systemic action allows it to target fungi throughout the body, making it an excellent choice for stubborn or deep-seated infections.

When is Diflucan preferred over topical treatments for skin yeast infections?

Diflucan is often prescribed when:

1. Topical treatments have failed to resolve the infection
2. The infection covers a large area of the body
3. The patient has a compromised immune system
4. There are recurrent infections despite proper hygiene and topical treatment
5. The infection is in an area difficult to treat with topical medications

Dosage and Administration of Fluconazole for Skin Infections

The dosage and duration of fluconazole treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the fungal infection. For skin yeast infections, the typical dosage ranges from 50 to 400 mg daily, with treatment courses lasting anywhere from a single dose to several weeks.

What are the standard dosing guidelines for Diflucan in treating skin yeast infections?

While specific dosages should always be determined by a healthcare provider, here are some general guidelines:

• For vaginal candidiasis: A single 150 mg dose is often sufficient
• For oropharyngeal candidiasis: 200 mg on the first day, followed by 100 mg daily for at least 2 weeks
• For tinea versicolor: 300 mg once weekly for 2-4 weeks
• For onychomycosis: 150 mg once weekly until the infection clears (can take several months)

It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This helps prevent the development of drug-resistant fungi.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions When Using Diflucan

While fluconazole is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential reactions is essential for patients and healthcare providers alike.

What are the most common side effects of fluconazole?

The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Changes in taste perception

In rare cases, more severe side effects can occur, such as liver damage or a serious skin reaction known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Patients should be vigilant and report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately.

Are there any specific precautions for using Diflucan in certain populations?

Yes, certain groups should exercise caution when using fluconazole:

• Pregnant women: Fluconazole should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in high doses, due to potential risks to the fetus
• Breastfeeding mothers: Fluconazole can pass into breast milk, so caution is advised
• Patients with liver or kidney problems: Dose adjustments may be necessary
• Individuals taking certain medications: Due to potential drug interactions

Always consult with a healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions or medications before starting fluconazole treatment.

Drug Interactions and Considerations with Fluconazole

Fluconazole can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

Which medications are known to interact with fluconazole?

Some notable drug interactions include:

• Warfarin and other blood thinners: Fluconazole may enhance their anticoagulant effect
• Certain antidiabetic medications: Fluconazole can increase their blood sugar-lowering effects
• Some anticonvulsants: Fluconazole may alter their levels in the blood
• Certain statins: Increased risk of muscle-related side effects
• Some antidepressants: Potential for increased side effects or altered effectiveness

It’s essential to provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your healthcare provider before starting fluconazole treatment.

Comparing Diflucan to Other Antifungal Treatments for Skin Infections

While Diflucan is an effective treatment for many fungal skin infections, it’s not the only option available. Understanding how it compares to other antifungal treatments can help in making informed decisions about treatment.

How does Diflucan compare to topical antifungal treatments?

Diflucan offers several advantages over topical treatments:

• Systemic action: Treats infections throughout the body, not just on the skin surface
• Convenience: Oral medication is often easier to use than applying creams or ointments
• Efficacy for widespread infections: More effective for large areas or multiple infection sites

However, topical treatments may be preferred for localized, mild infections due to their targeted action and lower risk of systemic side effects.

What are the alternatives to Diflucan for treating skin yeast infections?

Other antifungal medications that may be used include:

• Itraconazole (Sporanox): Another oral antifungal with a similar spectrum of activity
• Ketoconazole (Nizoral): Available in both oral and topical forms
• Terbinafine (Lamisil): Particularly effective for fungal nail infections
• Nystatin: A topical antifungal often used for candida infections
• Miconazole and clotrimazole: Common ingredients in over-the-counter antifungal creams

The choice between these options depends on factors such as the type and location of the infection, patient preferences, and potential side effects or drug interactions.

Preventing Recurrence of Skin Yeast Infections After Diflucan Treatment

While Diflucan can effectively treat skin yeast infections, preventing recurrence is equally important. Implementing proper hygiene practices and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of future infections.

What steps can be taken to prevent the recurrence of skin yeast infections?

Consider the following preventive measures:

• Maintain good hygiene: Keep skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to moisture
• Wear breathable clothing: Choose natural fibers that allow air circulation
• Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture: Change out of wet clothes promptly
• Manage underlying conditions: Control diabetes and other health issues that may increase susceptibility to fungal infections
• Use probiotics: Consider probiotic supplements to maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body
• Practice safe sex: Use protection to reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring fungal infections

By combining effective treatment with Diflucan and these preventive strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of recurring skin yeast infections.

Fluconazole Use in Veterinary Medicine

Fluconazole isn’t just for human use; it’s also employed in veterinary medicine to treat fungal infections in animals, particularly dogs and cats. Understanding its applications in pets can be valuable for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike.

How is fluconazole used to treat fungal infections in pets?

In veterinary medicine, fluconazole is used to treat various fungal infections, including:

• Systemic fungal infections, such as blastomycosis and cryptococcosis
• Fungal skin infections and yeast overgrowth
• Fungal infections of the urinary tract
• Certain types of pneumonia caused by fungi

The dosage and duration of treatment can vary depending on the type of infection and the size of the animal. As with humans, it’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the veterinarian.

Are there any specific considerations for using fluconazole in pets?

While fluconazole is generally safe for use in dogs and cats, there are some important considerations:

• Potential side effects: Similar to humans, pets may experience gastrointestinal upset, liver problems, or skin reactions
• Drug interactions: Fluconazole can interact with other medications commonly used in veterinary medicine
• Pregnancy and lactation: Use should be avoided in pregnant or nursing animals unless absolutely necessary
• Dosage adjustments: May be needed for animals with liver or kidney problems

Always consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to pets, and report any unusual symptoms or reactions promptly.

The Future of Antifungal Treatments: Beyond Fluconazole

While fluconazole remains a cornerstone in the treatment of fungal infections, ongoing research and development in the field of antifungal medications promise new and potentially more effective treatments in the future.

What new antifungal treatments are on the horizon?

Several promising developments in antifungal therapy include:

• Novel azole compounds: New generations of azole antifungals with improved efficacy and reduced side effects
• Echinocandins: A class of antifungals that work by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in fungi
• Polyene antifungals: Advanced formulations of existing polyene drugs with better tolerability
• Antifungal vaccines: Research into preventive and therapeutic vaccines against common fungal pathogens
• Combination therapies: Exploring synergistic effects of combining different antifungal agents

These advancements aim to address challenges such as drug resistance, broader spectrum of activity, and improved safety profiles.

How might future treatments improve upon current antifungal therapies?

Future antifungal treatments are expected to offer several advantages:

• Enhanced efficacy against resistant strains of fungi
• Reduced toxicity and fewer side effects
• Broader spectrum of activity against various fungal species
• More convenient dosing regimens, potentially improving patient compliance
• Novel mechanisms of action to overcome existing resistance patterns

As research progresses, these developments may revolutionize the treatment of fungal infections, offering hope for patients with difficult-to-treat or resistant infections.

fluconazole (Diflucan) – International Association of Providers of AIDS Care

WHAT IS FLUCONAZOLE?

Fluconazole is an antifungal drug. In the U.S., its brand name is Diflucan. It is sold under many different names in other parts of the world. Antifungals fight infections caused by different kinds of fungi. Fluconazole fights opportunistic infections (OIs) in people with HIV.

WHY DO PEOPLE WITH HIV TAKE FLUCONAZOLE?

Fluconazole is used when fungal infections can’t be treated with skin lotions or creams.  It works against several different types of fungi, including the yeast infection called candidiasis (thrush).

Many germs live in our bodies or are common in our surroundings. A healthy immune system can fight them off or keep them under control. However, HIV infection can weaken the immune system. Infections that take advantage of weakened immune defenses are called opportunistic infections (OIs). People with advanced HIV disease can get OIs.

The yeast infection candidiasis, or thrush, is fairly common. It can be more serious in people with HIV. Fluconazole is also used to treat another OI, cryptococcal meningitis. Fluconazole has been approved to treat both of these infections.

Some doctors also use fluconazole to treat other OIs caused by fungi. 

WHAT ABOUT DRUG RESISTANCE?

Whenever you take medication, be sure to take all of the prescribed doses. Many people stop if they feel better. This is not a good idea. If the drug doesn’t kill all of the germs, they might change (mutate) so that they can survive even when you are taking medications. When this happens, the drug will stop working. This is called developing resistance to the drug.

For example, if you are taking fluconazole to treat thrush and you miss too many doses, the thrush in your body could develop resistance to fluconazole. Then you would have to take a different drug or combination of drugs to treat thrush.

Many healthcare providers prefer to treat thrush with creams or lozenges that dissolve in the mouth. Thrush is much less likely to develop resistance when the treatment is applied directly to the infection instead of through the whole body.

HOW IS FLUCONAZOLE TAKEN?

Fluconazole is available in several forms. It comes in tablets of 50, 100, 150, or 200 milligrams (mg). It is also available in granules to prepare a liquid form and as a liquid for intravenous (IV) use. The dose and the length of time you will take it depend on the type of infection you have.

If you have had kidney problems, your healthcare provider might need to reduce your dose of fluconazole.

You can take fluconazole with or without food.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

The most common side effects of fluconazole are headache, nausea, and pain in the abdomen. A few people get diarrhea. Most antiretroviral medications (ARVs) cause problems in the digestive system. Fluconazole could make those problems worse.

Fluconazole can be hard on the liver. Your doctor will probably watch your lab results carefully for any sign of liver damage. Let your doctor know if your urine gets dark or your bowel movements get light-colored.

Fluconazole can also cause kidney damage. Let your doctor know if you notice a rapid increase in your weight or if any part of your body gets swollen.

In rare cases, fluconazole can cause a serious reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) that shows up as a skin rash.

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take fluconazole.

HOW DOES FLUCONAZOLE REACT WITH OTHER DRUGS?

Fluconazole is processed mostly by the kidneys. It does not interact very much with drugs that use the liver, including most ARVs used to treat HIV. However, fluconazole interacts with the protease inhibitor (PI) ritonavir (Norvir). It also interacts with several other types of drugs. These include some blood thinners, seizure medications, water pills (diuretics), pills to lower blood sugar, and other antibiotics. Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all the medications you are taking.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Fluconazole is used to treat candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis, opportunistic infections in people with HIV. The most common side effects of fluconazole are headache, nausea, and abdominal pain.

MORE INFORMATION

MedlinePlus: Fluconazole

Drugs.com: Fluconazole

Reviewed March 2021

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Fluconazole (Diflucan®) for Dogs and Cats

PetPartners, Inc. is an indirect corporate affiliate of PetPlace.com. PetPlace may be compensated when you click on or make a purchase using the links in this article.

Overview Fluconazole for Dogs and Cats

• Fluconazole, also known as Diflucan®, belongs to a general class of drugs known as antifungals. Other related drugs in this class include miconazole, itraconazole (Sporanox®) and ketoconazole (Nizoral®). Fluconazole is used in both dogs and cats to treat infections caused by fungi.
• Fluconazole inhibits the growth of fungal organisms by interfering with the formation of the fungal cell wall.
• Fluconazole is effective only against fungal or yeast organisms. These fungi are the ones that cause skin infections (dermatophytes) commonly known as “ringworm” and toenail infections. However, it also is effective for some more serious fungal infections, such as blastomycosis and cryptococcosis. These infections can affect the brain, bone and respiratory tract (lungs).
• Fluconazole is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.
• This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug.

Brand Names and Other Names Fluconazole

• This drug is registered for use in humans only.
• Human formulations: Diflucan® (Roerig)
• Veterinary formulations: None

Uses of Fluconazole for Dogs and Cats

• Fluconazole is used in both dogs and cats to treat infections caused by fungi. These infections may affect the skin, claws, brain, respiratory tract, bone and other tissues.
• Fluconazole is not effective against infections caused by bacteria, parasites (intestinal worms), mites or viruses.

Precautions and Side Effects

• While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, fluconazole can cause side effects in some animals.
• Fluconazole should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
• Fluconazole may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with fluconazole. Such drugs include glipizide, cimetidine, amphotericin B, buspirone, corticosteroids, certain diuretics, fentanyl, losartan, quinidine, rifampin, theophylline, aminophylline, warfarin, cyclosporine and certain antibiotics.
• The most serious adverse effect is that which affects the liver (hepatitis). Signs of decreased appetite, jaundice, vomiting or diarrhea should be reported to your veterinarian.
• Compared to some of the other antifungal drugs (amphotericin B, ketoconazole), fluconazole has been associated with fewer adverse effects.
• Fluconazole may cause vomiting, diarrhea and decreased appetite in dogs and cats.

How Fluconazole Is Supplied

• Fluconazole is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg or 200 mg tablets, or a 10 mg/ml to 40 mg/ml liquid oral suspension.
• Also available as an injectable drug at 2 mg/mL.

Dosing Information of Fluconazole for Dogs and Cats

• Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
• The usual dose for dogs is 2.5 to 5 mg per pound (5 to 10 mg/kg) per day orally.
• The dose for cats is 5 mg per pound (10 mg/kg) twice daily which often works out to be about 50 mg per cat twice daily orally.
• It is common for fungal infections to require several weeks of treatment.
• The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.

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Fungicidal action of various systemic antimycotics on fungi of the genus Candida in vitro » Obstetrics and Gynecology

The article is devoted to a comparative analysis of the fungicidal activity of preparations containing fluconazole as an active substance on test strains of 3 species of yeast of the genus Candida: C.  albicans, C. parapsilosis , C. glabrata in vitro. The work was carried out in a double-blind manner. Diflucan, an original drug containing fluconazole, and 5 of its generics were used. Yeast was sown on Sabouraud and PGDA medium. The dimple-diffusion method was used in the work. Preparations in capsules were studied in suspension at concentrations of 150 and 2 mg/ml. Diflucan for intravenous administration served as a control. The experiments were carried out in 15 repetitions 3 times. The results were evaluated by the size of the yeast growth inhibition zone (in mm).
In a comparative study of preparations containing fluconazole, Diflucan showed the highest statistically significant fungicidal activity on all three model yeast strains at maximum (150 mg/ml) and minimum (2 mg/ml) concentrations. The fungicidal activity of the encapsulated form of diflucan (2 mg/ml) and liquid for intravenous administration (2 mg/ml) did not differ statistically significantly on both C. albicans and C. parapsilosis. The most sensitive to the drug were C.albicans and C.parapsilosis. Diflucan inhibits the growth of C. glabrata statistically significantly more pronounced than other drugs containing fluconazole.

Fluconazole is a systemic antimycotic, particularly well established in the treatment of fungal infections caused by yeasts of the genus Candida. According to the biochemical structure, fluconazole is a derivative of triazole and functionally belongs to highly active selective inhibitors of steroid synthesis in fungal cells. At low concentrations, fluconazole disrupts the biosynthesis of the fungal cell membrane, which leads to the development of a fungistatic effect (growth retardation). At high concentrations, due to peroxidation and other processes in the cell, the death of the fungus occurs (fungicidal effect). Unlike other azole drugs, fluconazole has a high specificity for fungal enzymes dependent on cytochrome p=450 [6].

The fluconazole molecule was synthesized and patented by Pfizer (USA). Later, after the expiration of the patent, generics appeared on the pharmacological market, which also include fluconazole. It is known that generic drugs are compared with the original drug in various parameters (bioequivalence, bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, etc.) [9].

The purpose of our study is to evaluate the fungicidal activity of various antimycotics containing fluconazole on laboratory cultures of various yeasts of the genus Candida.

Research material and methods

We used the original drug containing fluconazole — diflucan (Pfizer, USA) and fluconazole generics: diflazon (KRKA, Slovenia), flucostat (Pharmstandard-Leksredstva, Russia), mycosyst (Gedeon Richter, Hungary) , fluconazole (Hemofarm, Serbia), mycomax (Zentiva, Czech Republic). In the experiments, at least 5 packages of the drug of the same name from various pharmacies in Moscow were used. The preparations were studied at concentrations of 150 and 2 mg/ml. Diflucan was used as a control for intravenous administration at a concentration of 2 mg/ml. For the study, test strains of Candida albicans (VKPMY-3108), Candida glabrata (KBP 3049) and Candida pararapsilosis (KBP 3050), Sabouraud’s medium and peptone-glucose-yeast agar.

Dimple-diffusion method used. 20 ml of agar medium was added to a petri dish. A hole was made in the center for 2/3 of the thickness of the agar layer. After that, yeast strains were sown in the lawn, preparations were added to the well in two concentrations, as indicated above. incubation was carried out at 37°C for 24 h, after which the yeast growth inhibition zone was measured and the plates were photographed (Fig. 1, see insert).

Zones of inhibition of fungal growth (complete inhibition of colony growth) were measured in mm. To control zones of growth inhibition, microscopy of agar fragments was performed (Fig. 2, 3, see insert).

Study results and discussion

All studied fluconazole preparations inhibited the growth of three types of yeast at concentrations of both 150 mg/ml and 2 mg/ml. At the same time, the zones of yeast growth inhibition formed as a result of exposure to diflucan were, as a rule, significantly larger than those when exposed to other preparations containing fluconazole (see table).

In all experiments with C.albicans growth inhibition zones were significantly larger when exposed to Diflucan than other drugs.

As for C. parapsilosis , at a drug concentration of 150 mg/ml, the zones of inhibition of yeast growth were statistically significantly larger when exposed to diflucan than with other drugs. At a drug concentration of 2 mg/ml, the difference in the size of the growth inhibition zone under the influence of Diflucan and Mycosyst turned out to be statistically unreliable.

In experiments with C.glabrata at a drug concentration of 150 mg/ml, the zones of inhibition of yeast growth were statistically significantly larger when exposed to Diflucan than with other drugs. At a drug concentration of 2 mg/ml, growth inhibition zones were statistically significantly larger when exposed to diflucan compared to fluconazole, mycosyst, mycomax, and flucostat.

In a comparative study of the fungicidal activity of diflucan on various types of yeast, the most sensitive were C.albicans and C.parapsilosis (Fig. 4, see insert).

Various species of the genus Candida, most notably Candida albicans , can cause damage to the skin, gastrointestinal tract and genitals. Vulvovaginal candidiasis is one of the most common reasons for women to visit a gynecologist [2]. According to a number of authors [1,3,5,8], C.albicans is isolated from 73-90% of patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis, C.glabrata – from 15-35%, other types of yeast, including C. parapsilosis , – in 4-19% [8-11]. These data determined the choice of model yeast species for our experiments, in which the antimycotic activity of fluconazole was studied.

An important question is how to interpret the results. Is a difference in the size of the zone of yeast growth inhibition of 1 mm a lot or a little? Especially when comparing the antimycotic activity of drugs, which include fluconazole. Currently, there is no consensus among mycologists. However, this issue has been well studied on the example of bacteria. So, for example, if when exposed to Pseudomonas aeruginose ticarcillin zone of inhibition of growth of microorganisms ≤14 mm – this strain is resistant, and if ≥15 mm – the strain is sensitive to this drug [7].

When studying the fungicidal activity of diflucan and its various generics in vitro, it was shown that all studied drugs have this property. However, this activity manifests itself to varying degrees. Diflucan has the highest statistically significant fungicidal activity on all three model strains both at the maximum and minimum concentrations. In addition, it is very important that this drug inhibits the growth of strains not only C.albicans but also other yeast species. C.albicans and C. parapsilosis turned out to be significantly more sensitive to diflucan than C.glabrata resistant to various antimycotics [2,10]. Our data prove that diflucan inhibits the growth of C.glabrata statistically significantly more pronounced than other studied drugs containing fluconazole. Similar results in a comparative study of the fungicidal activity of diflucan and some of its generics were obtained on other types of yeast of the genus Candida and, importantly, by other methods [4].

Thus, the fungicidal activity of fluconazole in different preparations is not the same. Diflucan has the highest statistically significant fungicidal activity on all three model yeast strains at maximum (150 mg/ml) and minimum (2 mg/ml) concentrations.

The most sensitive species to the preparation were C.albicans and C.parapsilosis . It inhibits the growth of C.glabrata statistically significantly more pronounced than other drugs.

1. Ankirskaya A.S., Muravieva V.V., Mironova T.G. and others. Genital candidiasis in the structure of opportunistic infections of the vagina. Principles of laboratory diagnostics and the importance of monitoring the sensitivity of fungi to antimycotics // Obstetrician. and gin. – 2009. – No. 5. – S. 31-37.

2. Ankirskaya A.S., Muravieva V.V., Fursova S.A. . Monitoring of the species composition and sensitivity to antimycotics of yeast-like fungi isolated from the vagina of women of reproductive age. //Wedge. microbiol. antimicrobial chemother. – 2006. – V. 8, No. 1. – S. 87-95.

3. Burova S.A. Features of the occurrence and complex treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. // Attending doctor. – 2003. – No. 4. – S. 53-56.

4. Vasilyeva N.V., Vybornova I.V., Elinov N.P. Susceptibility of Candida species to fluconazole and some of its generics in in vitro tests // Prob. honey. mikol. – 2002. – V.4, No. 2. – S. 43-44.

5. Kungurov N.V., Gerasimova N.M., Vishnevskaya I.F. Modern ideas about the treatment of urogenital candidiasis // The attending physician. – 2004. – No. 6. – S. 46-48.

6. Kunelskaya V.Ya. Experience with the use of mycoflucan (fluconazole) in the treatment of pharyngomycosis. // Attending doctor. – 2005. – No. 1. – S. 67-69.

7. Sidorenko S.V., Kolupaev V.E. antibiogram: disc diffusion method. interpretation of results// http://www.rusmedserv.com/microbiology/standard/article_5html.

8. Smetnik V.P., Marchenko L.A., Chernukha G.E. Experience in the use of mycoflucan (fluconazole) for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis// Attending physician. – 2004. – No. 2. – S. 73-76.

9. O. B. Talibov . Generics and drug equivalence. http://www.rusmg.ru.

10. Pfaller M.A., Diekema D.J., Rinaldi M. et al. Gibbs and the Global Antifungal Surveillance Group.Results from the ARTEMIS DISK Global Antifungal Surveillance Study: a 6.5 – Year Analysis ofSusceptibilities of Candida and Other Yeast Species to Fluconazole and Voriconazole by Standardized Disk Diffusion Testing. //J. Clin. microbiol. —2005. — Vol. 43, No. 12. – P. 5848-5859.

Zheltikova Tatyana Mikhailovna, Doctor of Biol. sciences, head. lab. Institutions of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums. I.I. Mechnikova RAMS
Address: 105064, Moscow, Maly Kazenny per., 5a
Phone: 8(495)917-42-55
E-mail: [email protected]

Monistat versus Diflucan: differences, similarities and what’s best for you – Drug Vs. Friend

Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Monistat vs Diflucan: Differences, Similarities & Which is Best for You

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Drug Overview and Key Differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | Frequently Asked Questions

Vaginal yeast infections are a relatively common and highly treatable condition that many women experience. These infections are usually caused by overgrowth of a group of fungi known as fungi albicans , which is present in the normal microflora of the vagina of most women. When certain conditions allow vaginal thrush, also known as thrush, to grow, it results in symptoms that may include vaginal tenderness, itching, discharge, and/or odor. The sensitivity of this condition leads many women to look for a quick and effective treatment option. Monistat and Diflucan are two treatment options for vulvovaginal candidiasis.

What are the main differences between Monistat and Diflucan?

Monistat is an over-the-counter treatment option for vaginal yeast infections. He (miconazole) fights fungal infections by reducing the production of ergosterol. This results in damage to the cell wall of the fungus, allowing the nutrients needed for the growth of the fungus to leak out.

Monistat (Monistat Coupons) is available in a variety of treatment combinations that may include vaginal ova (suppositories) and/or vaginal creams for both internal and external use. There are products for treatment for one, three or seven days. Many formulations of Monistat (what is Monistat?) have generic options available. Monistat OTC products are not intended for use by persons under 12 years of age.

Diflucan (fluconazole) (Diflucan coupons) is a prescription medicine for yeast infections that works similarly to Monistat in that it reduces ergosterol production. The damage to the cell wall membrane that this causes prevents the fungus from surviving. Diflucan (what is diflucan?) is available as oral tablets in doses of 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg. It is also available as an oral suspension and injection. A doctor’s examination is required to obtain a prescription for Diflucan, and in some cases a sample analysis may be required. Diflucan can be administered to both children and adults.

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Conditions Treated Monistat vs.

Diflucan

Monistat is for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis tuberculosis (vaginal yeast infections) in women who have previously been diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection and have recurring symptoms. Monistat is not intended for use by individuals who have never been diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection. Women who have symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection for the first time but have never been diagnosed should first be evaluated by a doctor.

Diflucan is also indicated for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections, but has a number of other approved uses, including candida growth in the urinary tract, abdomen, heart, esophagus, mouth, blood, and bones. Diflucan can also be used to treat fungal infections of the nails and feet. Immunocompromised patients may benefit from prophylactic treatment with diflucan to prevent overgrowth of fungi. A rare disease, cryptococcal meningitis, can also be treated with Diflucan. The duration of treatment for vaginal yeast infections with diflucan can be from one to 14 days, depending on the treatment history and the complexity of the patient’s infection.

901 65 No

901 61

90 158

Monistat vs.

Diflucan Warnings

Women experiencing symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection for the first time should consult their physician for confirm the diagnosis before starting treatment with any product.

Monistat may compromise the integrity of latex products and therefore may damage products such as condoms or diaphragms. While using Monistat, you should refrain from using other vaginal products such as tampons, douches, or spermicides. When using Monistat products, vaginal intercourse is not recommended. Monistat products may cause skin sensitivity such as itching, burning and irritation. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your physician before using Monistat.

Diflucan has been associated with rare but serious liver injury and should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease. Your doctor may monitor your liver enzymes while you are taking Diflucan, especially if you are taking it for a long period of time. Rare cases of a life-threatening allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis, to diflucan have been reported. Diflucan should be avoided during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.

Frequently asked questions about Monistat and Diflucan

What is Monistat?

Monistat is an over-the-counter drug for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections. It is available in a variety of treatment options including vaginal oocytes and creams. The duration of Monistat treatment can be one, three or seven days, depending on the product chosen.

What is Diflucan?

Diflucan is a prescription drug used to treat vaginal yeast infections as well as a number of other fungal infections. It is available as an oral tablet or solution, and also as an injection. Treatment for vaginal yeast infections can last from one to fourteen days, depending on the severity of the infection.

Are Monistat and Diflucan the same thing?

Although both Monistat and Diflucan are antifungal drugs used to treat vaginal yeast infections, they are not the same. Monistat is available for purchase without a prescription and is used topically in the vaginal area. Diflucan is a prescription drug and is taken by mouth for systemic absorption.

Which is better – Monistat or Diflucan?

Monistat and Diflucan are proven effective treatments for vaginal yeast infections. Monistat may provide faster resolution of symptoms such as itching, burning and irritation. Diflucan has wider uses for fungal infections other than vaginal candidiasis.

Can I use Monistat or Diflucan during pregnancy?

Diflucan should not be used during pregnancy. Generally, topical antifungals such as Monistat are the preferred products for treating vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using Monistat products during pregnancy.

Can I use Monistat or Diflucan with alcohol?

Alcohol is not contraindicated for either Monistat or Diflucan. You should consult your doctor before drinking alcohol while taking Diflucan as it is known to cause rare hepatotoxicity. Patients who regularly drink alcohol may be at an increased risk of liver damage.