Fluconal

Fluconal Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Fluconal is a brand name. Its generic name is Fluconazole.

Fluconal Introduction

Fluconal is a prescription antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections, including vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and fungal infections in other areas of the body. It is an azole antifungal and works by preventing the growth of fungi. It is available as a generic medication and is sold under many brand names, including Diflucan.

Uses for Fluconal

Fluconal is used to treat a variety of fungal infections. It is commonly used to treat yeast infections, such as vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and fungal infections in other areas of the body. It may also be used to prevent fungal infections in people who are at risk, such as people with weakened immune systems, those taking chemotherapy, and those who have had a bone marrow transplant. In some cases, fluconazole is also used to treat urinary tract infections.

Mechanism of Action

Fluconal works by preventing the growth of fungi by inhibiting the synthesis of the fungal cell wall. It works by interfering with the production of a certain type of lipid that is necessary for fungal growth and is essential for the formation of the fungal cell wall.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

It usually takes fluconazole about one to two days to take full effect. However, it may take up to a week or longer for full relief of symptoms.

Absorption

Fluconal is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak concentrations are achieved in two to four hours after oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Fluconal is eliminated primarily by the kidneys through glomerular filtration and tubular secretion.

Dosage and Administration

Fluconal is available in varying doses depending on the type and severity of the infection being treated. Generally, the recommended adult dose is 150 mg for vaginal yeast infections, 200 mg for thrush, and 400 mg for other fungal infections. Fluconal can be taken orally with or without food.

Side Effects

Common side effects of fluconazole include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. It may also cause an upset stomach and abdominal pain. Some people may also experience rash, blurred vision, and changes in sense of taste. Additionally, it may cause a decrease in white blood cells, which can make infection more likely.

Toxicity

Fluconal is generally well tolerated, but it may cause serious side effects when taken in large doses or with certain other medications.

Precautions

Fluconal should not be taken by those with an allergy to azoles, or those with existing liver or kidney disease. Additionally, it should not be taken by women who are pregnant, as it can cause birth defects. It is also important to tell your doctor if you are taking other medications, as interactions can occur.

Interactions

Fluconal can interact with certain other medications, such as blood thinners, antacids, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and certain heart medications. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Disease Interactions

Fluconal can interact with certain diseases, including kidney or liver disease, as well as HIV/AIDS. It may cause liver damage, especially when taken in large doses or with certain other medications, such as antifungals.

Drug Interactions

Fluconal can interact with certain drugs, such as blood thinners, antacids, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and certain heart medications. Talk to your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid serious side effects.

Food Interactions

Fluconal can interact with certain foods, such as foods high in sugar, alcohol, and dairy products. Talk to your doctor before taking fluconazole with these foods.

Pregnancy Use

Fluconal is generally not recommended during pregnancy, as it can cause birth defects in unborn babies. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking fluconazole while pregnant.

Lactation Use

Fluconal is not recommended for use while breastfeeding, as it could pass into the breast milk and cause harm to the infant. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking fluconazole while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and abdominal pain.

Contraindication

Fluconal is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to fluconazole or other azoles.

Use Direction

Fluconal should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose, and do not postpone or skip any doses. It is important to take fluconazole for the full course of treatment to ensure that all of the fungus is eliminated.

Storage Condition

Fluconal should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for fluconazole is approximately 0.5-1.0 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of fluconazole is typically about 30 hours.

Clearance

The renal clearance of fluconazole is approximately 33-81 mL/min.

Dosage Information

Fluconal is available in different doses:

  • Vaginal Yeast Infections: 150mg
  • Thrush: 200mg
  • Other Fungal Infections: 400mg

The recommended adult dose is typically 150mg for vaginal yeast infections, 200mg for thrush, and 400mg for other fungal infections. Fluconal should be taken with or without food.

Here you find in details version of Fluconal

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Fluconal

What is Fluconal?

Fluconal is an antifungal medicine that is used to treat fungal infections, including yeast infections. It is a prescription medicine that comes in tablet, suspension, and IV form.

How long does Fluconal take to work?

The length of time it takes for Fluconal to work depends on the type of infection being treated. It may take anywhere from one to seven days for the infection to clear up.

Is Fluconal safe to take?

Yes, Fluconal is generally safe to take when prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about the safety of Fluconal.

What are the side effects of Fluconal?

The most common side effects of Fluconal are nausea, vomiting, headaches, and skin rash. Other less common side effects include confusion, dizziness, abdominal pain, and changes in vision.

How is Fluconal taken?

Fluconal can be taken by mouth as a tablet, a suspension, or by IV. Depending on the type and severity of the infection, the dose may need to be adjusted. Follow your doctor's instructions for taking Fluconal.

What is the usual dose of Fluconal?

The usual dose of Fluconal is one 200 mg tablet taken once a day for up to 6 weeks. For other infections, the dose may need to be adjusted. Follow your doctor's instructions for taking Fluconal.

Can I take Fluconal while pregnant?

It is not recommended to take Fluconal while pregnant unless directed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor before taking Fluconal if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

How long does it take for Fluconal to be effective?

The length of time it takes for Fluconal to be effective depends on the type and severity of the infection being treated. Generally, it takes one to seven days for the medicine to take full effect.

Does Fluconal interact with other medications?

Yes, Fluconal may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications before taking Fluconal to be sure there will be no interactions.

Can I take Fluconal with food?

Yes, you can take Fluconal with food to reduce any potential gastrointestinal effects. You should still take fluconazole as indicated by your doctor.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Fluconal?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Fluconal. Alcohol can increase the side effects of the medication and may interfere with its effectiveness.

Can Fluconal be used to treat nail fungus?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat nail fungus. It is generally prescribed for a duration of 6-12 weeks and may need to be combined with other oral or topical treatments to be fully effective.

Can I use Fluconal for ringworm?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat ringworm. It is most effective when combined with other antifungal medications. Talk to your doctor for the best treatment plan for your infection.

Can I take Fluconal if I'm allergic to penicillin?

Yes, you can take Fluconal if you are allergic to penicillin. Fluconal and penicillin are different types of medications and therefore should not interfere with one another.

What is the maximum dose of Fluconal?

The maximum dose of Fluconal varies depending on the type of infection being treated. Generally, the maximum dose of Fluconal is 200mg taken once a day. However, for some infections, the maximum daily dose can be up to 600mg.

When should Fluconal not be used?

Fluconal should not be used for certain medical conditions, including severe liver disease, severe kidney disease, and a weakened immune system caused by disease or HIV/AIDS. Talk to your doctor before taking Fluconal.

Can Fluconal be used to treat athlete's foot?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat athlete's foot. It is usually prescribed for a minimum of 4 weeks and may need to be combined with other treatments for the infection to clear up.

What are the drug interactions with Fluconal?

Fluconal can interact with certain other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungal drugs, and heart medications. Talk to your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting on Fluconal.

Can Fluconal be used to treat genital yeast infections?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat genital yeast infections. Usually it is prescribed for 3-7 days and may need to be followed up with other treatments depending on the severity of the infection.

How should Fluconal be stored?

Fluconal should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not store Fluconal in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of reach of children and away from pets.

What if I forget to take my dose of Fluconal?

If you forget to take a dose of Fluconal, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Can Fluconal cause diarrhea?

Yes, Fluconal can cause diarrhea, as well as other gastrointestinal problems. If you experience severe diarrhea or any other side effects after taking Fluconal, stop taking the medication and talk to your doctor.

Can Fluconal be used to treat oral thrush?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat oral thrush. It is usually prescribed for a minimum of 14 days and may need to be followed up with other treatments depending on the severity of the infection.

Does Fluconal weaken the immune system?

No, Fluconal does not weaken the immune system. In fact, it helps to fight off fungal infections that can weaken the immune system. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about Fluconal and the immune system.

What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to Fluconal?

The symptoms of an allergic reaction to Fluconal may include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in the face, lips, or tongue, and feeling faint or dizzy. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Fluconal, seek medical help immediately.

Can I take Fluconal and ibuprofen together?

Yes, Fluconal and ibuprofen can be taken together. However, it is important to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol while taking both medications as they could interact with each other and cause adverse effects.

Can Fluconal be used to treat urinary tract infections?

No, Fluconal is not typically used to treat urinary tract infections. If you suspect you have a UTI, it is important to see your doctor right away to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Does Fluconal interact with birth control?

Yes, Fluconal can interact with certain forms of birth control, including hormonal birth control pills. If you are taking any form of birth control while taking Fluconal, talk to your doctor.

What are the potential long-term side effects of Fluconal?

The potential long-term side effects of Fluconal include liver damage, weakened bones, and changes in vision. Talk to your doctor right away if you experience changes in vision or abnormal liver enzymes after taking Fluconal.

Can Fluconal be used to treat fungal infections in the lungs?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat fungal infections in the lungs. It is important to take Fluconal as prescribed by your doctor and take the full course of treatment to prevent the infection from returning.

Can I take aspirin while taking Fluconal?

Yes, you can take aspirin while taking Fluconal, however it is important to talk to your doctor first to ensure there are no interactions between the two medications. Aspirin can increase the risk of side effects from Fluconal.

Can Fluconal treat a vaginal yeast infection?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat a vaginal yeast infection. It is usually prescribed for 3-7 days and may need to be followed up with other treatments depending on the severity of the infection.

Can I take Fluconal while breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to take Fluconal while breastfeeding unless directed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor before taking Fluconal if you are breastfeeding or planning to start.

What should I do if Fluconal isn't working?

If Fluconal isn't working, it is important to talk to your doctor right away. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose or switch to a different medication to treat the infection.

Is Fluconal over the counter?

No, Fluconal is a prescription medication and is not available over-the-counter. Talk to your doctor if you think you may need a prescription for Fluconal.

Can Fluconal be used to treat a sinus infection?

No, Fluconal should not be used to treat a sinus infection. Sinus infections are caused by bacteria, not fungus, and should be treated with antibiotics rather than antifungals such as Fluconal.

Can Fluconal treat a skin infection?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat some types of skin infections caused by fungus, such as athlete's foot. It is usually prescribed for a minimum of 4 weeks and may need to be combined with other treatments for the infection to clear up.

Can Fluconal be used to treat candida overgrowth?

Yes, Fluconal can be used to treat candida overgrowth. It is usually prescribed for a minimum of 3 to 7 days and may need to be followed up with other treatments depending on the severity of the infection.

Is Fluconal safe for long-term use?

Yes, Fluconal is generally safe for long-term use when taken as directed by a doctor. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about taking Fluconal for an extended period of time.

What if I accidentally double dose on Fluconal?

If you accidentally double dose on Fluconal, it's important to talk to your doctor right away. Accidentally taking more than the recommended dose can increase the risk of side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the medication.