Diflucan is a medication with the active ingredient fluconazole. It is also known as an antifungal medication. Diflucan is used to treat infections caused by fungi, mainly yeast infections. It can be prescribed for infections in various parts of the body, including the mouth, throat, and genital area.
The Diflucan price is approximately £0.57 – £4.62 per pills. Depending on the size of the pack and the number of tablets inside (30 or 360 mg).
Diflucan, also known by its generic name Fluconazole, is an antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections. It belongs to the class of drugs known as triazole antifungals. Diflucan works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, leading to cell death.
Diflucan is prescribed for the treatment of multiple fungal infections including vaginal candidiasis, oropharyngeal and esophageal candidiasis, and systemic candidiasis. It is also used for the treatment of cryptococcal meningitis and for the prophylaxis of fungal infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Dosage varies depending on the infection being treated. For vaginal candidiasis, a single 150 mg oral dose is typically effective. For systemic or serious infections, dosages may range from 200 mg to 800 mg daily. Dosing should be adjusted based on renal function, particularly in patients with impaired renal function.
Diflucan inhibits the fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme 14α-demethylase. This inhibition disrupts the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. The accumulation of 14α-methyl sterols leads to increased cell membrane permeability and cell death.
Diflucan is well absorbed with oral administration, with bioavailability exceeding 90%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 30 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. It is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.
Diflucan is a moderate inhibitor of cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4. Concurrent use with substrates of these enzymes may require dose adjustments or monitoring for toxicity. Common drug interactions include warfarin, phenytoin, and oral hypoglycemics.
In pediatric populations, the dosing should be meticulously adjusted according to the body weight and the type of infection being treated. Geriatric patients may require lower doses due to decreased renal function. For pregnant women, Diflucan should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Diflucan is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to fluconazole or any of its inactive ingredients. It is also contraindicated concurrently with terfenadine, or with cisapride due to the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias.
Common side effects include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Serious but rare side effects include hepatotoxicity, alopecia, and QT prolongation. Patients should report any signs of liver dysfunction, such as jaundice or severe abdominal pain, to their healthcare provider.
Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended during prolonged therapy. Renal function should also be monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. For patients on anticoagulants, prothrombin time should be monitored, as Diflucan can potentiate the effects of warfarin.
Diflucan tablets should be stored at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The oral suspension should be stored at room temperature or refrigerated, and discarded after 14 days from reconstitution. It should be kept away from moisture and direct light.
Diflucan can be administered with or without food. Patients should be advised to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. For missed doses, patients should take it as soon as they remember unless it is near the time for their next dose.
Therapeutic effectiveness should be assessed through clinical symptoms and, if applicable, laboratory tests such as cultures or histopathology. The adequacy of response may require ongoing inspection of the infection site.
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Hemodialysis can reduce plasma concentrations of Diflucan. Gastric lavage may be considered within an hour of ingestion to reduce drug absorption.
Patients frequently ask about the duration of treatment with Diflucan. The length of therapy varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. Another common question is regarding the use of Diflucan in fungal prophylaxis, particularly in immunocompromised patients, where long-term or intermittent use might be indicated.
Clinical guidelines recommend Diflucan as a first-line treatment for invasive candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis. It remains a cornerstone in antifungal therapy due to its efficacy and favorable pharmacokinetic profile. Long-term use should follow specific protocols to minimize side effects and resistance development.