Diflucan

Diflucan is the branded formulation of fluconazole, a triazole antifungal used for the treatment of mucosal and systemic candidiasis, cryptococcal meningitis, and dermatophyte infections. Fluconazole has excellent oral bioavailability and penetrates well into most body fluids, including cerebrospinal fluid. For uncomplicated vaginal thrush, a single 150 mg oral dose is usually curative.

How to Take Diflucan

Diflucan (fluconazole) capsules can be taken with or without food. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.

For vaginal thrush, a single 150 mg dose is usually all that is needed. For oral thrush, the usual regimen is 50 mg once daily for seven to fourteen days. For more serious or recurrent infections, longer courses or higher doses may be prescribed. Always follow your doctor's instructions on dose and duration.

Recurrent Thrush

For women with recurrent vaginal thrush (four or more episodes per year), Diflucan can be used as a monthly suppression dose for up to six months under medical supervision. If you are using it for the first time or your symptoms are unusual, see your doctor to confirm the diagnosis before self-treating.

Vaginal candidiasis: 150 mg as a single oral dose. Oropharyngeal candidiasis: 50 to 100 mg daily for 7 to 14 days. Systemic candidiasis: 400 mg on day 1, then 200 to 400 mg daily. Duration depends on infection type.

Common Side Effects

Diflucan is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash

Liver Effects

Rarely, Diflucan can affect liver function, particularly with higher doses or prolonged treatment. Tell your doctor if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea and abdominal pain — these may be signs of liver involvement. Fluconazole also interacts with a number of medicines, including warfarin (which it significantly potentiates), certain statins, and some anticoagulants. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you take before starting Diflucan.

Fluconazole is a potent CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inhibitor and interacts with many medications, including warfarin, statins, and some antidiabetic drugs. Check interactions before prescribing. Liver function monitoring is recommended for prolonged courses.

Contraindicated in concurrent use with drugs that prolong the QT interval (e.g., terfenadine, cisapride) and known hypersensitivity to fluconazole or other azole antifungals.