CDHB

Fluconazole (capsule and liquid)

floo-kon-ah-zole

What does it do?

Fluconazole is used to treat and prevent fungal infections.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have liver, kidney or heart problems, or have ever had a seizure.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Your doctor may do a heart test (ECG) before you start and while you are taking fluconazole.

How should you take it?

Take fluconazole regularly as directed. Keep taking it until the course is finished, even if you start to feel better. It is sometimes given as a single dose.
Capsule: Take with food and a glass of water.
Liquid: Measure carefully with an oral syringe or measuring spoon. Shake the bottle well before measuring each dose.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible and continue as directed.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with fluconazole including:

  • sildenafil (e.g. Viagra®) or similar medicines
  • anti-inflammatories, such as diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren®) or ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen®). These can also be found in some cold and flu medicines (e.g. Nurofen Cold and Flu®).

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

Important information continues on next page.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing

Reduced number of blood cells that fight infections or help your blood to clot - symptoms include: fever, chills, sore throat or generally feeling unwell, or easy or unusual bruising or bleeding

Seizures

Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain

Fainting

Tell your doctor immediately

Headache

Stomach upset

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.