Oct 19, 2021

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Guide to Fluconazole

Fluconazole

Fluconazole (also marketed under the brand name Diflucan) is commonly prescribed with or without other medications to treat fungal and yeast infections. This medication is also given to cancer patients who have had bone marrow transplants who receive cancer or radiation treatment to prevent candidiasis. 

If you or someone you know is suffering from a fungal infection, Fluconazole may be able to help. Use the below information as a guide to help you determine if it could be the proper medication for you, but always consult with your physician before starting any new medicines. 

Fungal and Yeast Infections

Many types of fungi live on your skin at any given time even though they aren't visible to the human eye. Usually, they don't cause any problems, but sometimes a fungus will change and cause an infection on our skin or in our body. 

Types of infections include:

What are the Symptoms and Complications of Fungal and Yeast Infections?

Depending on where the fungal infection is located, symptoms include but are not limited to:

  • Irritation

  • Scaly skin

  • Redness

  • Itching

  • Swelling

  • Blisters

  • White patches

  • Loss of taste

If a fungal infection is left untreated, there can be severe complications, especially for those with a weakened immune system (i.e., those with HIV/AIDS, those taking steroid medications, or on chemotherapy). Fungal infections can spread throughout the body and in the event that they reach vital organs such as the heart and the brain, they can lead to fatal results. 

What are the Causes of Fungal and Yeast Infections?

Fungal infections occur when the invading fungus takes over an area on/in the body and  becomes too much for the immune system to handle. 

There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing a fungal infection. These include:

  • Poor blood circulation

  • Suppressed immune system 

  • Pregnancy

  • Menopausal status

  • Certain medications

  • Nail or skin injury

  • Dampness/humidity

What is Fluconazole and How Does it Work? 

Fluconazole is in the drug class of medications called antifungals. Available in a tablet or powder for suspension, it works by killing the fungus or yeast or preventing its growth.

How Do You Use Fluconazole to Treat Fungal Infections?

It is essential that you first consult your healthcare provider before starting any new prescription medication. Also, always be sure to carefully follow the recommendations of your health care provider, use the medication as instructed and as per the directions on the prescription label. 

Use your prescription Fluconazole following the directions of your healthcare provider. You should use this medicine for the full treatment time your doctor recommends, even if you begin to feel your symptoms improve after the first few doses. Your infection may not clear up or may return if you stop using the medicine too soon.

What are the Possible Side Effects of Fluconazole?

It is possible to experience side effects when using Fluconazole. Call your doctor if any of these symptoms don't go away or worsen in severity.

Common side effects include:

  • nausea

  • stomach pain

  • diarrhea

  • upset stomach

  • headache

  • dizziness

  • changes in the sense of taste

Serious side effects can also occur. If you experience any allergic reactions, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek medical attention immediately. 

Call your physician as soon as possible if you experience the following symptoms:

  • fast/pounding heartbeat,

  • flutter in your chest

  • shortness of breath

  • sudden dizziness

  • fever

  • chills

  • body aches

  • flu symptoms

  • easy bruising or bleeding

  • unusual weakness

  • seizure (convulsions)

  • skin rash or lesions

  • loss of appetite

  • upper stomach pain

  • dark urine and/or clay-colored stool

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin and/or eyes)

Final thoughts 

Fluconazole may be the solution treatment for you or someone you know who suffers from a fungal or yeast infection. At CareCard, we are passionate about helping make your prescription payments more affordable, saving members up to 85% on prescription drugs and medications. You can search for a Fluconazole coupon here and learn how CareCard can help make your medication payments more manageable.