If you have a yeast infection, DiflucanŽ is
an oral antifungal agent that may be an easier
way to treat it than a messy cream. A recent survey
of 179 women showed that 9 out of 10 women preferred
DiflucanŽ to a vaginally inserted cream.
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Diflucan
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement,
not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that use of the
drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is an antifungal agent used to treat
infections in certain areas of the body caused by yeast
and yeast-like organisms.
How to Use
This medication works best when the amount of medicine
in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by
taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals. Take
as directed since different conditions require different
methods of use. This drug is usually taken once daily.
Another dosing method involves taking the drug for one
week per month until treatment is completed. Continue
to take this medication until the full prescribed amount
is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days.
Stopping the medication too early may allow the yeast
to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.
Side Effects
This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite,
altered taste, diarrhea, nausea, headache or dizziness
during the first few days as your body adjusts to the
medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe,
inform your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an
allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical
attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
liver disease, kidney disease, any drug allergies. This
medication should be used only when clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor. Fluconazole is excreted into breast milk. The
manufacturer of this drug recommends it not be used
while breast-feeding. Consult your doctor before you
breast-feed.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and
nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: astemizole,
cisapride, cimetidine, oral contraceptives, cyclosporine,
oral antidiabetic drugs, hydrochlorothiazide, phenytoin,
rifampin, rifabutin, certain benzodiazepines (e.g.,
alprazolam, triazolam), tacrolimus, terfenadine, theophylline,
warfarin, zidovudine. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include hallucinations and changes in
behavior.
Notes
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another infection
or give it to someone else. A different medicine may
be needed.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If
it is almost time for the next dose, take the scheduled
dose only. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight.
Do not store in the bathroom.
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