Fluconazole

What is fluconazole?

Fluconazole is a antifungal medicine that is often used to treat and prevent a variety of fungal and yeast infections. It belongs to a class of medications known as triazole antifungals[2].  

Fluconazole is available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, and oral suspension. It is available both on prescription, and as an over-the-counter single 150mg capsule for thrush as previously diagnosed by a doctor[2]. 

What is fluconazole used for?

Fluconazole is commonly prescribed for several different fungal infections, such as[2]: 

• Vaginal thrush (vaginal yeast infections) 

• Oral thrush  

• Oesophageal candidiasis  

• Fungal urinary tract infections 

• Cryptococcal meningitis 

Fluconazole may also be used in the prevention of fungal infections in people with weakened immune systems. Examples include those receiving chemotherapy or organ transplants. 

How does fluconazole work?

Fluconazole works by blocking an enzyme that fungi need to build and maintain their cell membranes. When this is inhibited, the cell membrane becomes damaged. This causes the fungus to die. The result is stopping the infection from growing or spreading[2]. 

Who can take fluconazole?

Fluconazole is suitable for most adults and children over six months of age. However, in some cases, fluconazole may not be suitable for those with liver or kidney problems, acute porphyria (an inherited blood disorder), or heart rhythm disorders, as well as people with abormal calcium, potassium, or magnesium levels. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless clearly needed, should also not take fluconazole[2].  

If purchasing fluconazole over the counter for thrush, it is restricted to people aged 16 to 60. 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before starting fluconazole, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[3]. 

What is the typical dosage of fluconazole?

The typical dose of fluconazole depends on the type and severity of the infection. For vaginal thrush, a single 150mg tablet is usually effective. With oral thrush, a typical treatment is 50 to 100mg once daily for 7 to 14 days. Other conditions may require longer courses or stronger dosages[2]. 

No matter the condition you are treating, always follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist[4]. 

How do you take fluconazole?

You can take fluconazole with or without food, swallowing the capsule or tablet whole with a glass of water. Alternatively, if you are using the liquid form, shake it well before use and measure your dose carefully using a proper measuring device. A household spoon is usually not accurate enough for proper dosing. You should try to take it at the same time each day[2]. 

Can you stop taking fluconazole early?

No, you should not stop taking fluconazole early unless your doctor or pharmacist you to. Even if you start feeling better, it’s important to complete the full course. This will fully clear the infection and reduce the risk of it coming back[4]. 

What should you do if you take too much fluconazole?

In rare cases, taking too much fluconazole may cause such symptoms as nausea or vomiting, seizures, or hallucinations. If you suspect you’ve taken an overdose, seek emergency medical attention or call emergency services immediately[2]. 

One or two extra doses of fluconazole are unlikely to cause harm. Advice should immediately be sought from NHS 111 if a child has taken too much, or if someone feels unwell after taking fluconazole.  

What should you do if you forget a dose of fluconazole?

If you forgot a dose of fluconazole, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. You should not take a double dose[2]. 

Can fluconazole interact with other medicines?

Yes, fluconazole can interact with several other medications and cause unwanted effects. For that reason, fluconazole should not be taken with[2]: 

• Warfarin, dabigatran (may increase the risk of bleeding) 

• Clopidogrel (decreases efficacy) 

• Anti-seizure medicines, such as phenytoin or carbamazepine 

• Statins (may increase the risk of muscle damage) 

• Diabetes medications, such as glipizide or glyburide (may cause low blood sugar) 

• Some antibiotics and antidepressants 

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines, supplements, or any other products you are taking, as this may affect your prescription. 

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medication before you take any new medicine[4]. 

What are the side effects of fluconazole?

The most common side effects may include headaches, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea, and rashes. More serious side effects, for which you should seek urgent medical advice, include[2][4]: 

• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or unusual fatigue 

• Severe skin reactions, such as blistering or peeling 

• Irregular heartbeat 

If you experience any serious symptoms, stop taking the medication and speak to a medical professional. 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice.

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[3].

For the official NHS guide to fluconazole, visit their website.

Frequently asked questions about fluconazole

Can I drink alcohol while taking fluconazole? 

Moderate alcohol use is generally safe while taking fluconazole. However, if you have liver problems, you should avoid alcohol while taking it[2]. 

How quickly does fluconazole work? 

Many people notice an improvement in their symptoms within 1 to 2 days of taking fluconazole. The full course, though, may take several days to weeks to complete, depending on the infection[2]. 

Is fluconazole safe in pregnancy? 

Fluconazole is not usually recommended during pregnancy. It should only be used if clearly necessary, and usually in small doses. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist first[2]. 

Can I use fluconazole more than once for yeast infections? 

Yes, fluconazole can be taken more than once if needed. If you’re finding that yeast infections happen frequently, your doctor or pharmacist may need to explore other treatment options or investigate underlying causes. When purchasing fluconazole over the counter it is advised to contact a doctor or pharmacist if you have had thrush more than twice in the last 6 months[2]. 

For the official NHS guide to fluconazole, visit their website.