This medication is only available with a doctor’s prescription.
Fluconazole is an antifungal medication that is used to treat a variety of fungal infections. Candida, blastomycosis, coccidiodomycosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, dermatophytosis, and pityriasis versicolor are all examples. It is also used to prevent candidiasis in people who are at high risk, such as after organ transplants, premature babies, and people with low blood neutrophil counts. It is administered either orally or intravenously.
Vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and increased liver enzymes are all common side effects. Seizures, QT prolongation, and liver problems are all possible serious side effects. It may increase the risk of miscarriage during pregnancy, and high doses may cause birth defects. Fluconazole belongs to the azole antifungal medication class. It is thought to work by influencing the fungal cellular membrane.
Fluconazole was first used commercially in 1988 after being patented in 1981. It is included on the WHO’s List of Essential Medicines. Fluconazole is available in generic form. With over 3 million prescriptions in 2020, it was the 174th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States.
Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal medication of the first generation. It differs from earlier azole antifungals (such as ketoconazole) in that it has a triazole ring rather than an imidazole ring in its structure. While imidazole antifungals are mostly used topically, fluconazole and other triazole antifungals are preferred for systemic treatment due to their improved safety and predictable absorption when administered orally.
