Diflucan (Fluconazole)

• Diflucan is typically taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by a healthcare provider, usually once daily. If the liquid suspension form is used, it should be shaken well before each dose, and the dose should be carefully measured using a special measuring device/spoon to ensure accuracy.
• The dosage is based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also based on weight, and in general, the dose should not exceed 600 milligrams daily unless directed by the healthcare provider.
• Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain a constant level of the medicine in the body.
• Continue taking Diflucan until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, but if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped. Using two doses at one time should be avoided.
• Overdose should be avoided, and if suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately.
• Diflucan should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. The oral suspension can be stored between 86 F (30 C) and 41 F (5 C), but should not be allowed to freeze. Any leftover liquid that is more than 2 weeks old should be discarded.

• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Skin rash or skin lesions
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling tired or light-headed
• Muscle or joint pain
• Craving salty foods
• Dizziness

• Seizures (convulsions)
• Decreased adrenal gland hormones, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, feeling tired or light-headed, muscle or joint pain, skin discoloration, and craving salty foods
• Serious skin problems, which in rare cases have led to death
• Fast/irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness
• Signs of adrenal glands not working well, such as loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, and weight loss
• Serious medical problems like chest tightness, chills, clay-colored stools, cough, dark urine, difficulty with swallowing, fever, and headache

Diflucan should be administered with caution to patients with liver dysfunction, as it has been associated with rare cases of serious hepatic toxicity, including fatalities, primarily in patients with serious underlying medical conditions. 

Diflucan hepatotoxicity has usually, but not always, been reversible on discontinuation of therapy. Patients who develop abnormal liver function tests during Diflucan therapy should be monitored for the development of more severe hepatic injury. Diflucan should be discontinued if clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop that may be attributable to Diflucan.

In rare cases, anaphylaxis has been reported as a potential risk associated with Diflucan.

Diflucan may harm an unborn baby. Effective birth control should be used while using fluconazole and for at least 1 week after the last dose. Inform your healthcare provider if pregnancy occurs while using Diflucan. In addition, consult your healthcare provider regarding the safety of breastfeeding while using this medicine.

Caution should be used in prescribing Diflucan to patients with hypersensitivity to other azoles. Coadministration of other drugs known to prolong the QT interval and which are metabolized via the enzyme CYP3A4, such as erythromycin, pimozide, and quinidine, are contraindicated in patients receiving fluconazole. Furthermore, there may be significant interactions with drugs such as warfarin and phenytoin.

Diflucan is generally well tolerated, but consulting a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment is recommended.