Fluconazole ๐
โ ๏ธ In patients with recurrent fungal infections, always consider testing for HIV if risk factors are present.
๐ About
Always check the BNF link here.
- ๐ Triazole antifungal compound.
- ๐งช Inhibits fungal growth by disrupting sterol synthesis.
โ๏ธ Action
- ๐ฌ Inhibits fungal cytochrome P450 enzymes.
- ๐งฑ Reduces ergosterol synthesis, weakening fungal cell membranes.
๐งช Properties
- ๐ Good oral absorption and distribution, including CSF penetration.
- โฑ๏ธ Long half-life (~30 hours).
- ๐ง Primarily eliminated renally.
๐ Indications / Dose
- ๐ Oral candidiasis: 50โ100 mg PO OD for 2 weeks.
- ๐ซ Oesophageal candidiasis: 50โ100 mg PO OD for 3 weeks.
- ๐ฉ Vaginal candidiasis: 150 mg PO single dose.
- ๐ฆถ Tinea pedis and related dermatophyte infections: 50 mg PO OD for 2โ4 weeks.
- ๐ง Invasive candidiasis / cryptococcal meningitis (specialist input): 200โ400 mg PO/IV daily for ~12 weeks.
๐ Interactions
- โ ๏ธ Potent CYP450 enzyme inhibitor โ โ toxicity of theophylline, ciclosporin, phenytoin, tacrolimus.
- โฌ๏ธ Reduces clopidogrel efficacy (โ conversion to active metabolite).
โ ๏ธ Cautions
- ๐งช Stop immediately if signs of hepatotoxicity develop.
- ๐ May prolong QTc interval โ caution in cardiac disease.
- ๐ง Dose adjustment required in renal impairment.
โ Contraindications
- ๐ See BNF for complete list.
๐ฅ Side Effects
- ๐คข GI: nausea, vomiting.
- ๐ก๏ธ Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, StevensโJohnson syndrome, TEN, anaphylaxis.
- ๐งช Hepatic: hepatotoxicity.
- ๐ง Neurological: headache, seizures.
- ๐ฉธ Electrolyte: hypokalaemia.
- ๐ Alopecia (rare with prolonged use).