Sporanox (Itraconazole)

Do’s

• Take Sporanox by mouth with a full meal, as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once or twice daily.
• Swallow the capsules whole.
• Take it consistently at the same time(s) each day for optimal effectiveness.
• If taking Sporanox in cycles (treatment periods with breaks), mark your calendar as a reminder.
• Continue taking Sporanox for the entire prescribed duration, even if symptoms disappear, to prevent infection recurrence.
• Consult your healthcare provider for guidance if you have questions about different forms of Sporanox.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.

Don'ts

• Don't take Sporanox on an empty stomach. Take it with a full meal for proper absorption.
• Don't take Sporanox within 2 hours of antacids, as they can decrease its absorption.
• Don't switch between Sporanox forms or brands without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't stop taking Sporanox early, even if you feel better. Complete the prescribed course to prevent relapse.

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Tiredness
• Increased blood pressure
• Rash
• Itching
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Swelling
• Abnormal liver function or blood tests
• Fever
• Muscle or joint pain
• Unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Impotence, erection problems
• Changes in menstrual periods

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Decreased urine output
• Dry mouth
• Fever
• Increased thirst
• Irregular heartbeat
• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes
• Muscle pain or cramps
• Nausea
• Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
• Seizures
• Trouble breathing
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain
• Chills
• Clay-colored stools
• Cloudy urine
• Cold sweats
• Confusion
• Cough
• Dark urine
• Decrease in urine-concentrating ability
• Dizziness
• Dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
• Drowsiness
• Feeling unusually cold

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Sporanox,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have before taking Sporanox, including allergies to itraconazole, other azole antifungals, or any inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have any of the following conditions:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease (heart failure, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease)
• Lung disease (COPD)
• Decreased or no stomach acid (achlorhydria)

Sporanox may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Don't drink alcohol or use marijuana while taking Sporanox. Alcohol may also increase the risk of serious liver problems.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before having surgery.

Older adults may be at higher risk for hearing loss while taking Sporanox.

Sporanox should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. It should not be used for fungal nail infections during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use reliable birth control while taking Sporanox and for 2 months after stopping treatment. 

Sporanox passes into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Sporanox should not be used for fungal nail infections if you have a history of heart failure. It may rarely cause or worsen heart failure. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop symptoms of heart failure.

Sporanox can interact with many other medications. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.