Fluconazole (Diflucan) is a unique treatment for vaginal yeast infections. It can be taken as a pill or suspension and is available only by prescription.
It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better. This will help prevent the infection from coming back.
What is it used for?
Fluconazole is used to treat infections caused by the fungus Candida. These infections may affect the mouth, throat, food pipe, genitals, blood, lungs and other organs. It works by stopping the growth of the fungus. It is also used to prevent fungal infections in people who have a weak immune system after cancer treatments or bone marrow transplants. This medication is available in tablet and liquid suspension form. It is taken by mouth as directed, usually once a day. The length of treatment depends on the type of infection and your doctor’s recommendation.
This medication is in a class of medications called azole antifungals. It works by blocking certain enzymes in the fungus that cause it to grow. It is also effective in treating itchy ringworm infections of the scalp and skin.
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to fluconazole or any other medicines. Before you start taking it, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, especially a history of heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG). If you are lactose intolerant, you should let your doctor know because some brands of this medication contain lactose. You should also avoid grapefruit juice because it can interfere with how well the drug works. This medication may make you dizzy or drowsy.
How do I take it?
Fluconazole comes as a tablet or a liquid that you take by mouth. It also can be given as an injection in a hospital setting. It is available as a generic drug and the brand name Diflucan. It is typically taken once a day, and it can be taken with or without food.
It may take a few days before you start feeling better from a vaginal yeast infection, but once it starts working, it will provide relief fairly quickly. It can take a little longer to get relief from a fungal skin infection.
You should follow the directions on your prescription. You should also read the patient information pamphlet that is included with this medication. Fluconazole can cause stomach pain or nausea in some people. If this happens, you should drink plenty of fluids and eat smaller meals to help prevent dehydration and discomfort. If you are taking the oral suspension form of this medication, shake it well before you use it. You should also measure your dose using the plastic spoon that is provided. Using a kitchen spoon could result in you not getting the correct dosage.
If you are taking this medication for a fungal infection, it is important to finish the entire prescription, even if your symptoms lessen or disappear before you have finished the full amount. Stopping the medication too early can allow the fungus to grow back and cause the symptoms to return.
Can I have sex while taking it?
Many antifungal vaginal creams and suppositories require three to seven days to treat the infection, but fluconazole (Diflucan) can be taken in one single dose. That makes it easy to take before or after sex, and the medication is absorbed through your digestive system so it does not affect your partner. But it’s important to finish the full course of treatment as directed, even if you begin to feel better. Having sex before the infection is completely cleared can make symptoms, like itching and burning, worse for both of you. Also, if you stop taking it too soon, the yeast infection may return.
What are the risks of taking it?
Fluconazole is a medicine that works by stopping the growth of fungi. It is used to treat infections caused by fungi, including yeast infections of the vagina and mouth. It is also used to prevent infection in people who are receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment before a bone marrow transplant (replacement of unhealthy spongy tissue inside the bones with healthy tissue). This medicine is in a group of medicines called antifungals. It works by blocking the action of certain enzymes that are needed for the growth of fungi.
Serious side effects are very rare but can happen. They include a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) and severe skin reactions. These may include a swollen face, lips or tongue and a rash that is red, raised, itchy or blistered. You should get emergency medical attention if you have these symptoms.
This medication can affect your blood sugar levels and can cause a fast heart rate in some people. If you have a problem with your blood sugar levels or have a condition that increases your risk of high blood sugar (such as diabetes), talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
This medicine may harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, use effective birth control while you are taking this medicine and for 1 week after you stop taking it.
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