Diflucan (fluconazole) is an antifungal medication used to treat candidiasis and other fungal infections, including:

• Vaginal, oral, and urinary tract infections
• Pneumonia, peritonitis, and systemic fungal infections
• Cryptococcal meningitis (prevention & treatment)

Mechanism: Disrupts fungal cell membrane formation, killing sensitive fungi.

Dosage & Administration

Adults:

• Vaginal yeast infection: 150 mg single dose
• Oral/throat infections: 50 mg daily for 7-14 days
• Skin infections: 50 mg daily for 2-4 weeks
• Severe systemic infections: 400 mg on Day 1, then 200-400 mg daily for 6-8+ weeks
• Prevention (immunocompromised): 50-400 mg daily

Children (4 weeks - 15 years):

• Mucosal infections: 3 mg/kg once daily
• Systemic infections: 6-12 mg/kg once daily
• Prevention: 3-12 mg/kg daily

Infants (under 4 weeks):

• Same doses as above, but given every 2-3 days

Note:

• Take with or without food, preferably at the same time daily.
• Use the provided measuring spoon for liquid form.
• Improvement typically seen within 24 hours, but complete recovery may take days.

Precautions

• Avoid if allergic to fluconazole or other azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole).
• Use cautiously in liver/kidney disease (dose adjustments may be needed).
• May cause dizziness—avoid driving or operating machinery.
• Limit alcohol (increases liver stress).
• Not recommended in pregnancy/breastfeeding without medical advice.

Contraindications

Do not use if you have:

• Severe liver/kidney impairment
• Heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation risk)
• Low calcium, magnesium, or potassium levels

Possible Side Effects

Common (usually mild):

• Nausea, headache, dizziness
• Diarrhea, stomach pain
• Skin rash, itching

Serious (seek medical help):

• Allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Liver problems (jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain)
• Severe skin reactions (blistering, peeling)
• Irregular heartbeat, seizures

Drug Interactions

Diflucan affects many medications, including:

• Blood thinners (warfarin) → Increased bleeding risk
• Diabetes drugs (glyburide, glipizide) → Risk of low blood sugar
• Seizure meds (phenytoin, valproic acid) → Altered levels
• Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, tacrolimus) → Toxicity risk
• Sedatives (diazepam, midazolam) → Enhanced drowsiness

Consult your doctor before combining with other drugs.

Missed Dose & Overdose

• Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered. Skip if close to the next dose.
• Overdose symptoms: Confusion, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat → Seek emergency care.

Storage

• Keep at 15-25°C (59-77°F) in a dry, dark place.
• Keep away from children and pets.
• Do not use past expiration date.

Note: Always follow your doctor's instructions for safe and effective treatment.